《SpaceMage》
Chapter 1 1 - Qi World!
?The sky was a canvas of swirling, charcoal-colored clouds that seemed to stretch on endlessly. A chill ran through the air, and the asional sh of lightning illuminated the sky, revealing the ominous depth of the storm clouds. The thunder was a constant presence, a low, rumbling growl that seemed to vibrate through the very ground. It was a foreboding scene, one that seemed to promise danger and turmoil. The air was heavy with the scent of rain, and the wind whipped through the trees, causing them to bend and sway wildly.
Nestled in the folds of the mountains, a small vigey quietly, hidden from the rest of the world. It was a peaceful ce, filled with simple pleasures and the rhythms of everyday life. But on the outskirts of the vige, inside a small shed, a child sat quietly, his gaze fixed on the sky.
He was a small boy, no more than eight years old, with dark hair and eyes that seemed to hold a lifetime of sadness. His thin arms and legs hung limply from the chair, and he seemed lost in thought, his expression vacant and lifeless. But if one looked closely, they might see the flicker ofplex emotions in those deep, abyss-like eyes - a tinge of despair, a longing for something more, a sense of loss that seemed to weigh on his young shoulders.
It was a poignant scene, one that spoke of pain and hardship, but also of hope and resilience. The child seemed to be searching for something, even as the storm raged on outside, a reminder of the harsh realities of life. But even in the darkest of days, there is always the chance for something better, and perhaps this child, with his quiet strength and unwavering spirit, would find it.
The child let out a sigh, his shoulders sagging with the weight of his emotions. He had been sitting in the shed for an indeterminate amount of time, staring at the stormy sky. But now, as he stood up and made his way out of the shed.
He was just a child, but he had already known more than his fair share of hardship and pain. And yet, even in the face of such adversity, he refused to give up. He would keep fighting, no matter how hard it seemed, because he knew that there was always the chance for something better, no matter how bleak the circumstances.
"Well, for now I should head back home."
He had been there for months now, and even though he hade to think of this ce as home, he couldn''t shake the feeling that he didn''t belong. He was different from the other vigers, and not just because he had been reborn into this strange world - he had a sense of purpose, a drive that seemed to set him apart.
He was Ximen Wei, a former Chinese schr from Earth, and even though he couldn''t remember how he hade to be in this ce, he knew that he had a mission to fulfill. He had to find a way to get back to his own world, and to do that, he would have to be strong.
He turned and began to make his way back to the small house that he shared with his parents, Qin Liqiu and Ximen Fei. They were hardworking farmers, who toiled day and night to provide for their family. They were poor, but they were proud, and they had instilled in Ximen Wei a sense of determination and resilience that he knew would serve him well in the days ahead.
As he walked through the vige, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride for his parents and their hard work. Despite the challenges thaty ahead, Ximen Wei was determined to make the most of his new life. He would work hard, and he would do everything in his power to get back to the world he knew.
Ximen Wei approached the small wooden house that he called home, his footsteps quickening as he approached the door. He knocked twice, and a momentter, the door swung open to reveal a woman in her thirties, dressed in peasant clothing with sewn patches.
"Little Wei, you''rete," she said, a hint of concern in her voice.
"Sorry, Mom," Ximen Wei replied, removing his wooden shoes before stepping inside. "I had to wait for the storm to pass."
He turned towards his mother, his gaze expectant. "Mom, did you borrow the book I told you about from Uncle Fang?"
"Ah, yes," his mother replied, a smile spreading across her face. "It''s in your room."
"Okay, thanks!" Ximen Wei eximed, his excitement palpable. He had been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the book, and he couldn''t wait to get his hands on it.
He hurried off to his room, eager to begin reading and immersing himself in the world of knowledge contained within its pages. Despite the hardships and struggles of his new life, he remained determined to learn and grow.
Uncle Fang was a well-respected figure in the vige, known for his adventuresome spirit and his countless tales of the wonders of the world. In his youth, he had traveled across the continent, encountering people with superhuman and supernatural strength, and his stories had inspired a sense of wonder and curiosity in the young Ximen Wei.
Uncle Fang had long since retired from his adventures, but he still enjoyed spending his days in the vige center, regaling the children with stories of his travels. Ximen Wei was one of his most avid listeners, always eager to hear more about the mysterious power that granted humans such strength. And so, in his quest to learn more about this fascinating subject, Ximen Wei had taken to borrowing books from Uncle Fang, seeking out any and all information that might help him understand the secrets of this mysterious power.
ording to what Ximen Wei had learned so far, there were certain people in the world who possessed immense physical prowess and the ability to control the elements of nature - fire, lightning, water, and more. These individuals, known as Qi Experts, were like magicians, harnessing the power of the elements to perform incredible feats and possessing an unimaginable strength.
And ording to Uncle Fang, the mysterious power that granted them this strength was known as Qi. It was a force that flowed through all things, and by learning to harness and control it, one could unlock incredible abilities and achieve seemingly impossible feats.
Ximen Wei was fascinated by this concept, and he spent hours pouring over the books that he had borrowed from Uncle Fang, eager to learn more about this mysterious power and the people who wielded it. He knew that it would take years of hard work and dedication to evene close to mastering Qi, but he was determined to try, driven by a sense of curiosity and a desire to understand the full extent of his own potential.
Chapter 2 2 - Qi World(2)
?The door to the small, cramped room creaked open, and Ximen Wei stepped inside, his thin frame silhouetted against the dim light of the hallway. The room was cold and bare, with rough wooden walls and a dirt floor. It was no more than six meters square, and it waspletely empty, save for a threadbare nket thaty on the ground in one corner.
A gust of cold wind blew through the room, sneaking in through a crack in the ceiling and making Ximen Wei shiver. He couldn''t help but smile, but it was a smile tinged with sadness. This kind of lifestyle was hard for him to get used to, especially aftering from Modern Earth, where he had slept on afortable bed with heat and light at his fingertips.
He missed the luxuries of his old life, but he knew that he had to make the best of what he had.
''How nice it would be if I can return home?''
On top of the threadbare nket, therey a thick, ck book with striking red letters on the cover. The title, "World Encyclopedia," seemed to glow in the dim light of the candle that Ximen Wei had lit. This was the book that he had borrowed from Uncle Fang, and it promised to provide an elementary introduction to the world''s geography, modern powerhouses, and various animal species.
Ximen Wei sat atop the nket, his eyes fixed on the ceiling as he thought about the mysterious power of Qi. Could it really be true that by mastering this force, he could achieve the kind of strength and abilities that the Qi Experts possessed? And if he did, would he finally be able to return home to his own world?
A peculiar light shed in Ximen Wei''s eyes as he considered these questions. He knew that the path ahead would be difficult, And so, with a renewed sense of purpose, he opened the book and began to read, eager to learn as much as he could about the world and the power that flowed through it.
As Ximen Wei thought about his home, Earth, his eyes reddened and tears began to well up in his eyes. He knew that the only way he was going to be able to return home was by mastering the mysterious power of Qi.
"I have to," he whispered to himself, his voice choked with emotion. "That is my only way. I have family and friends waiting for me... She is waiting for me."
He thought of the people he had left behind, of the life he had once known, and he couldn''t help but feel a sense of sadness and longing. He missed his home, and the thought of never being able to return filled him with grief.
"Sigh," he sighed, wiping away his tears. "I always get emotional when I think of home."
But even as he felt the pain of homesickness, he knew that he couldn''t let it hold him back. He had a mission to aplish, and he was determined to see it through to the end, no matter how difficult the journey might be.
"This loneliness, I can''t curb it," Ximen Wei muttered to himself, a sense of despair creeping into his voice. Despite the love and affection of his adoptive parents, he felt a deep sense of emptiness, a longing for the people and the life he had left behind.
"I''m spacing out again," he chided himself, shaking his head to clear his thoughts. "If I want to get out of this hellhole, I have to focus and work hard."
He knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but he was determined to ovee any obstacle that came his way.
After opening the book and reading through a few pages, Ximen Wei began to get a better understanding of the world he had been reborn into. This was a vast and expansive ce, with five continents that were each twice the size of the Eurasian continent on Earth. The continent that Ximen Wei lived on was known as the Divine Star Continent, and it was and rich in resources and teeming with human settlements.
As he read on, he learned that the Divine Star Continent was a ce of great diversity, with a wide range of climates andndscapes, from verdant forests and rolling hills to towering mountain ranges and scorching deserts. It was and of opportunity, where people of all walks of life came to seek their fortune and carve out a ce for themselves in the world.
Ximen Wei was stunned to discover that in this world, humans were just one of many intelligent races coexisting alongside elves, goblins, dragonmen, orcs, and other fantastical beings. Each of these races had their own empires andnds, and the existence of such magic in this world made Ximen Wei wonder if it was all just a dream. But the harsh realities of thest eight years he had spent in this ce had shown him that this was no dream, but a true and extraordinary opportunity for humans to surpass their limitations and attain supernatural powers beyond anything they could have ever imagined.
As he sat in the dimly lit room, Ximen Wei''s mind was filled with thoughts of the future. As a poor vige boy, he knew that he would never be able to afford the expensive lessons required to learn the mysterious energy known as "Qi," a power that was only avable to the noble and privileged. Even his uncle, a former adventurer who had spent nearly three decades traveling the world, had never stumbled upon a way to learn it.
Frustrated by the limitations of his circumstances, Ximen Wei knew that he had to leave the vige in search of a way to learn this power. He remembered that a caravan would being through the vige next year, and he began to hatch a n to sneak onboard and travel to a city where he might have a chance of finding a way to learn "Qi." He knew it was a risky move, as he could be caught and put in danger, or even if he managed to make it to a city, there was no guarantee that he would be able to find a way to learn this mysterious power. But he was desperate to return home, and he saw no other choice but to take this gamble. His eyes shone with determination as he began to make his preparations for the journey ahead.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 3 3 - Fear
?As the first rays of the sun peeked over the horizon, the gloomy clouds from the previous daFy dispersed, allowing the warm light to wash over thend. The clear blue sky stretched out above, dotted with fluffy white clouds that seemed to dance and y in the gentle breeze. The air was filled with the cheerful songs of birds, their trills and chirps adding to the sense of joy and renewal that came with the new day. The roosters crowed loudly, announcing the start of a new day to all who would listen.
Throughout the vige, the people rose from their beds and set to work, tending to their farms and fields with renewed energy and determination. Ximen Wei, too, emerged from his home, the morning sun casting a golden glow on his face as he made his way towards the farm. The fields stretched out before him, the rich soil dark and fertile beneath his feet. He could see the other vigers hard at work, their hoes moving steadily as they prepared thend for theing harvest.
Ximen Wei sighed, knowing that the task ahead of him would be tedious andborious. But he also knew that it was necessary.
As Ximen Wei arrived at the farm, he was greeted by the sight of his father, a short man dressed in dirty peasant clothing and a straw hat. This was Ximen Fei, the man who had given him life and raised him with love and care. "Good morning, Little Wei," Ximen Fei called out, a warm smile on his face. "Start plucking the scallions from over there. Your mother will join you in a bit." "Okay, Dad," Ximen Wei replied, his own smile mirroring his father''s. He made his way over to the designated area and began to carefully pull the scallions from the soil, his fingers nimble as he worked. Despite the tedious nature of the task, he was grateful to be able to help his parents and contribute to their farm.
''Pffft, well, the good thing is, I only have to keep up with this shit for a ye-''
Suddenly, the ground beneath them began to shake violently, the sound of horse footsteps growing louder and louder. Ximen Wei and his father stopped their work, both of them frowning at the disturbance. "What''s that?" Ximen Fei muttered, his brow furrowed in concern. "Hmm, maybe patrols?" Ximen Wei suggested, his own unease growing by the moment. "Looks like people are heading towards the vige''s centre," Ximen Fei observed, squinting in the direction of themotion. "Let''s go and have a look."
As Ximen Wei and his father made their way to the centre of the vige, they could hear the sound of the approaching horses growing louder and louder. Ximen Wei''s unease deepened, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that something was very wrong. "Patrols usuallye in pairs," he thought to himself. "Judging from the sound of the horse''s footsteps, there must be more than 50 of them. Is it an army squadron passing by?" He couldn''t understand why an army would be heading towards their vige, rather than towards the fort to the west. It seemed like a strange and unnecessary detour.
By the time they arrived at the vige centre, almost all of the vige''s residents had gathered there, their faces worried and concerned. Ximen Wei noticed the old vige head, his face slick with sweat as he looked on at the approaching soldiers. The unease in Ximen Wei''s heart intensified, a bad premonition settling in his chest. "This may be my gut feelings," he thought to himself, "but I feel like something bad is going to happen."
Ximen Fei walked up to the old vige head and exchanged a few quiet words with him before returning with a grim expression on his face. Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of foreboding as he looked on at his father''s grim face, wondering what could possibly be happening.
"Honey, what is it?" Ximen Wei''s mother, Qin Liqiu, asked, her voice filled with concern. "Apparently Western Wen''s troops are heading towards this direction," Ximen Fei replied, his voice heavy with worry. "They are slowly encircling us..." "Western Wen? Isn''t that the neighboring empire next to us?" Qin Liqiu asked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "What are they doing trespassing on our borders? Do they want to start a war or something?"
Ximen Wei knew that Western Wen and the Su Dynasty were two powerful empires that shared a border, and that his vige was located very close to that border. He had always known that conflict between the two empires was inevitable, given that they constantly coveted each other''s territories. But he had never expected that this conflict woulde to his doorstep, threatening the safety and security of his own vige. As he looked on at the approaching soldiers, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of fear and uncertainty about what the future might hold.
If a war were to break out, Ximen Wei knew that his vige would be one of the first ces to face the resulting cmity. His heart raced with fear and anxiety as he listened to his father''s instructions. "Dear, take little Wei and hide in the closet," Ximen Fei said, his voice urgent and serious. "When the timees, make a run for it." "Honey¡" Qin Liqiu began to protest, her eyes filled with fear and concern.
But before she could finish her sentence, the sound of horse hooves filled the air, signaling the arrival of over 50 armored soldiers wielding spears and swords. They surrounded the vige, their auras suffocating and filled with bloodlust and killing intent. The ground shook as they approached, their presence ominous and foreboding. Ximen Wei could feel his heart pounding in his chest.
A group of warhorses and elite soldiers entered the vige, their leader a tall, muscr man dressed in ck knight armor and a helmet. He dismounted from his horse and surveyed the scene before him, his eyes narrowed as he focused his gaze on the crowd that had gathered around the vige center.
An old man with white hair and a crooked back stepped forward from the crowd and approached the leader, bowing deeply as he spoke in a quivering voice. "Humble lord, I wonder what brings you to our humble vige?"
But before he could even finish his words, the leader unsheathed his sword and pointed it towards the sky, his voice booming withmand. "Leave the women and children behind. Kill everyone else!"
The old man''s heart sank at these words, and cold sweat ran down his face. But he maintained his calm, pping his hands as he begged for mercy. "Humble lord, please show mercy on us. We are but simple peasants, with no desire for conflict or violence."
But his pleas fell on deaf ears, and with a sickening thud, the old man''s head was violently separated from his body, blood spurting forth as it rolled down to the ground. The air was filled with screams of terror and despair as the soldiers began their brutal rampage, leaving death and destruction in their wake. Ximen Wei could feel his heart racing with fear, knowing that he was in danger.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 4 4 - Painful Screams
?As they witnessed the brutal execution of their vige head, the crowd panicked, stumbling and dispersing in all directions as they tried to flee with their families and loved ones. But unfortunately, the vige was encircled from all sides, and there was no way for anyone to get in or out.
Shortly after, a massacre began. The soldiers hacked and shed their way through the panicked vigers, their swords and spears dripping with blood as they ughtered their helpless victims. Screams of terror and agony filled the air, mixing with the sounds of shing metal and the sickening thud of bodies hitting the ground. Ximen Wei could feel his heart pounding with fear as he watched the chaos unfold, knowing that he and his family were in grave danger.
The soldiers descended on the vige like a horde of ravenous wolves, their weapons raised and their eyes zing with a cruel, malicious intent. Their swords shed through the air, leaving a trail of destruction and carnage in their wake. Every step they took was marked by the sickening thud of metal against flesh, and the screams of the innocent vigers rang out through the air, apanied by the sickening sound of blood sttering against the ground.
The once peaceful vige was now a scene of unimaginable horror as the soldiers plunged their spears into the helpless vigers'' chests, hacking their heads off and tearing their limbs from their bodies. The ground was soaked in a sea of blood, brain matter, hair and feces, with torn limbs and organs strewn across the vige.
The soldiers took pleasure in their acts of violence, taking liberty with young girls and women as they vented their frustration and desires. The searing screams of the innocent echoed through the air, the children''s cries and the women''s wailing adding to the dreadful atmosphere. The appalling brutality of the soldiers left the vige in ruins, and its inhabitants in agony, their lives forever changed by the horrific acts of violence inflicted upon them.
Inside Ximen Fei''s house, Ximen Wei and his mother, Qin Liqiu, were hiding inside the closet. Qin Liqiu was shaking uncontrobly, her arms wrapped tightly around Ximen Wei as she dared not speak a word, hoping that the soldiers wouldn''t search the house and find them. Ximen Wei, on the other hand, was in a daze, his eyes dull and lifeless as he struggled to process the events unfolding around him.
He knew better than anyone else what would happen to him if he was caught, and the thought of being turned into a toy for the nobles to torture and experiment on filled him with fear and dread. He had heard of such things happening in Earth''s medieval ages, and he knew that in this primitive world, such atrocities were not umon. The screams and cries of pain and agony outside only served to make everything feel like a dream to Ximen Wei, and he desperately wanted to believe that this was all just a nightmare, that he would wake up and find himself back in his own home, surrounded by his family, friends, and her....
Bam! The door to the house was violently thrown open as two soldiers stormed in, their footsteps heavy and menacing. Within seconds, the interior of the house was turned upside down as the soldiers searched for any hidden vigers. Eventually, they arrived at the closet where Ximen Wei and Qin Liqiu were hiding, and the faint glimmer of hope that had been shining in Qin Liqiu''s eyes disappeared as the reality of their situation hit her. Ximen Wei, meanwhile, remained in his dazed state, his mind numb and unresponsive as he waited for the soldiers to discover them. The sound of their footsteps approaching was like a death knell, and both Ximen Wei and Qin Liqiu knew that their time was running out.
Creaaaaak. The door to the closet slowly swung open, revealing the two soldiers standing on the other side. "Hoho, look what we found here," one of them chuckled, his gaze wandering over Qin Liqiu''s trembling form. "AHHHH!! LET OFF!!" she cried out as the soldiers reached for her, but her resistance was futile as she was swiftly rendered unconscious with a hard smack to the head.
One of the soldiers looked at Qin Liqiu with a perverted gaze, licking his lips as he chuckled. "Hehe, looks like the search was fruitful. She looks pretty cute." "Sigh, at least don''t get her pregnant like what happenedst time at Boshe Vige," the other soldier replied, shaking his head. "Don''t worry Old Fang, I will definitely-- sniff, she smells good! If you want, I will lend her to you after I''m done with her," the first soldier said with a lecherous grin. "You really haven''t changed¡ Well, what do we do with this kid?" Old Fang asked, gesturing towards Ximen Wei. "Throw him with the rest!" the other soldier replied with a shrug, grabbing Ximen Wei by the arm and pulling him out of the closet.
The air was thick with a putrid stench of death and destruction as the troops leader surveyed the ruin of the vige. The charred remains of homes, once filled withughter and joy, stood as a stark reminder of the horrors that had unfolded. Corpses of adults and eldersy scattered across the ground, their lifeless eyes staring back in shock and terror. Women and children were chained together and loaded onto a horse-drawn carriage, soon to be sold as ves in the ck market.
The troops leader gave amand to his men to plunder the food warehouse before setting it aze. The sound of steel shing against steel as swords were drawn filled the air. Men rushed to the food warehouse, their arms filled with whatever loot they could manage. Soon, the sky was lit up with a fiery orange glow as the mes of the warehouse engulfed the vige. As the vige was reduced to ashes, only the screams of the enved women and children remained, echoing through the night.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 5 5 - Determination
?"Cheap ves! Cheap! Buy two and you get a discount for the third one!"
"Look at this breast! Look at this butt! She will serve you well in bed!" The ve traders shouted, their voices filled with greed and malice as they gestured towards the women and young girls in the cages, leering at them withscivious nces. "Child ves for cheap!" They cried, pointing to the huddled group of starving, skinny children cramped in a cage.
The children''s eyes were lifeless and their expressions were emotionless, their bodies emaciated and weak. Ximen Wei was among them, his once-healthy body now thin and gaunt, the bones visible through his stretched skin. He had spent almost a month in this underground market, enduring constant hunger and deprivation, and the suffering had taken its toll on him.
These past days, Ximen Wei''s meals had consisted of fragments of hard, rotten ck bread and leftover bones. He had been captured after the massacre of his vige and put up for sale in this ve market. He was no longer in a dazed state, but rather was thinking rationally anding up with ways to escape this rotten ce. Though his chances of sess were slim, he preferred to die trying rather than sit there and await his fate.
"Hah, I guess it''s my fortune to not get bought during these past weeks." Ximen Wei chuckled to himself, his voiceced with bitterness and resentment. "Either way, once the cage''s gate opens and the guards stop looking, I''ll make a run for it. If I get caught, so be it. I''m already fed up with this shit." He considered his options, weighing the risks and rewards. "Or maybe I can gamble and wait for some lord to purchase me? My chances of escaping this ce are almost zero, but if I get bought by someone, maybe I can find an opportunity to escape from their residence or while they are transporting me. Hopefully I get lucky..."
After solidifying his ns, Ximen Wei took a deep breath and studied his surroundings. Cages filled with human ves littered the street, their upants huddled together in fear and desperation. ve traders shouted and gestured wildly, trying to entice potential buyers with promises of strong, able-bodied workers or youthful, attractivepanions. Whips and bats were wielded by some as a show of force, a reminder of the power dynamics at y in this grim market. The air was thick with the stench of sweat, urine, and desperation, and Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of disgust and revulsion at the scene before him.
The ve traders'' expressions were filled with enthusiasm as they made all sorts of offers and discounts to their clients, their words dripping with false promises and maniptive charm. Meanwhile, the people in the cages wore miserable faces as they tucked their heads in and sobbed, screamed, or cried. Every single one of the ves was in a state of depression, including Ximen Wei.
"This ce is really fucked up, though," he thought to himself, his disgust reaching its limit. "Howe this isn''t illegal? Why is Western Wan allowing this ce to exist?" The injustice of it all weighed heavily on him, and he couldn''t shake the feeling of revulsion that had settled in his stomach. The mere thought of being bought by one of these cruel traders and being forced to work until he dropped made him feel sick. He had to find a way out of this hellhole, no matter how slim his chances were.
Ximen Wei had never seen such an atrocious ce in either of his two lives. The thought of being trapped in this hellhole forever filled him with despair. "No matter what, I have to leave this ce," he thought determinedly. "Sigh, I guess there''s a chance of reinforcements from the Su Dynasty as well, but that''s very unlikely, we''re deep into the enemy territory after all." He couldn''t help but give a helpless sigh as he continued to survey his surroundings, searching for any opportunity that might present itself. The thought of being trapped in this ce forever was unbearable, and he was willing to risk everything to escape.
A fat wealthy man waddled up to the child very stall, a greedy gleam in his eye as he surveyed the young males on disy. He licked his lips and chuckled to himself as he made crude jokes with the seller, asionally pointing to a particr child and negotiating a price. The seller leered at the children with a sly smile, his words dripping with disgust as he haggled with the wealthy man. The sight of the two men treating these innocent children like objects to be bought and sold made Ximen Wei''s blood boil with anger. He couldn''t stand the thought of being owned by someone like this, and he knew he had to escape before it was toote.
Ximen Wei watched in horror as the fat man approached the cage, leering at the children with a predatory gaze. The seller grinned greedily, eager to make a sale, as he gestured towards Ximen Wei and a few other young males. Ximen Wei''s heart raced as he desperately tried to shrink back and hide behind the other children, hoping to escape the notice of the disgusting man. He knew that if he were to be purchased by this fat man, his fate would be worse than that of a typical child ve. He would be subjected to unspeakable horrors and abuse, and his chances of escape would be slim to none. The thought of it made him feel sick to his stomach.
Ximen Wei closed his eyes tightly and tried to block out the sounds of the fat man''s lecherousughter and the seller''s greedy negotiating. He couldn''t bear to watch as the other boys were dragged away, their cries and pleas falling on deaf ears. All he could do was hope that he wouldn''t be the next one chosen. The stench of sweat and fear filled the air, making it hard for Ximen Wei to catch his breath. He felt like he was suffocating, trapped in this hellish ce with no escape in sight. But he refused to give up, he promised himself that he would find a way out, no matter how slim the chances. He couldn''t let this be the end, not when he had so much to live for.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 6 6 - What Did I Do To Deserve This?
?The fat man''s pudgy fingers pointed towards Ximen Wei, his beady eyes sparkling with greed and desire. His lips stretched into a grotesque smile as he rubbed his ample stomach, almost as if he was already savoring the thought of devouring Ximen Wei like a luxurious feast.
Ximen Wei stood frozen in horror, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched the seller approach his cage and unlock the door. The man''s gaze held a hint of pity as he reached in and grabbed Ximen Wei, pulling him out and handing him over to the wealthy man like amodity.
Ximen Wei couldn''t believe what was happening. He felt a wave of despair wash over him as he was dragged away from the only home he had ever known, destined to be nothing more than a ything for this gluttonous stranger. He couldn''t help but wonder what he had done to deserve such a miserable fate. Was this the end for him? Or was there still a chance for him to escape and find his way back to freedom?
Song Peizhi leered at Ximen Wei, his eyes roving over the young boy''s slender frame with a perverted gleam. He chuckled as he introduced himself, his voice dripping with malice and arrogance. "Hey kiddo, I''m Song Peizhi. From now on, you''re my ve. Do everything I say, or else...well, you don''t want to know the consequences."
Ximen Wei nodded silently, his face deathly pale as he listened to Song Peizhi''s words. He knew that he had toe up with a n to escape, no matter what the cost. He couldn''t bear the thought of living the rest of his life as this man''s ve, subjected to his every whim and desire.
Taking a deep breath, Ximen Wei squared his shoulders and looked ahead with a clear and resolute gaze. He knew that he had to be ready to seize any opportunity that presented itself, no matter how small. He couldn''t give up, not now. He had to find a way to escape and run for his life, no matter what the risks.
As Song Peizhi settled into the luxurious carriage, he gazed out the window with a sinister glint in his eye. "Haha, today is going to be a good day," he dered with an eerie tone. "Kid, what''s your name?"
Ximen Wei hesitated for a moment before answering, his voice emotionless and filled with despair. "Ximen Wei," he replied, careful to omit any honorifics.
Suddenly, there was a loud crack as Song Peizhi whipped Ximen Wei, his face twisted with anger. "Where are the honorifics? A mere ve like you doesn''t know how to show me respect? I''ll have to discipline you properly tonight, hehehe."
Despite the pain and the bitter expression that crossed his face, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a glimmer of hope deep inside. The ropes that bound his hands were thick, but the knots were not overlyplicated. Given enough time, he knew he could untie them stealthily and free himself from this hellish existence. At least he was tied directly to the carriage, rather than being cuffed or shackled. That would make it much easier for him to escape unnoticed.
As the horse carriage rumbled along, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but be drawn in by the stunning sights and sounds of the bustling city they were approaching. The city, known as the Green Lotus City, was a sprawling metropolis filled with towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife.
But the most striking thing about this city, without a doubt, was the sky. It was filled with an array of multi-colored, dazzling skynterns that floated gently on the breeze. Thesenterns emitted a bright glow that seemed to pulse and shimmer, changing colors every few seconds and creating a truly euphoric atmosphere throughout the city.
As Ximen Wei took in the breathtaking sight, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder wash over him. He had never seen anything like this before, and he knew that he would never forget the magical spectacle of the Green Lotus City''s skynterns.
"Country-side bumpkin, this is the Green Lotus City, it is managed by a revered Qi Expert lord. Obviously it''s going to be beyond extraordinary!"
''I may as well try to fish as much information as possible from this fat fart.'' Ximen Wei thought.
"Qi Expert?"
"Haha, truly a country-side bumpkin! You don''t know what a Qi Expert is!"
"M-master, can you please exin to me who are Qi Experts?"
The fatty, Song Peizhi, perked up at the question, his eyes filling with admiration and respect as he spoke with passion and reverence. "Kid, you really don''t know anything at all, since I''m in a good mood! Qi cultivation is ssified into five ranks. The City Lord of Green Lotus City is a rank 2 wind path Qi Expert, a legendary figure who held off ten thousand men of the Su Dynasty all by himself! When he guarded the border, not a single soldier out of the ten thousand strong Su Dynasty army dared take a step forward..."
As Song Peizhi spoke, spit flew everywhere as he became more and more animated, clearly holding these heroes and legends in high regard. Ximen Wei listened intently, trying to absorb as much information as he could. This was valuable intelligence that he could use to his advantage when he made his escape.
''The City Lord of the Green Lotus City is a rank 2 Qi Expert and managed to hold off a ten thousand men army all by himself,'' Ximen Wei thought to himself. ''If it were those rank 3 and rank 4 Experts who control fire and lightning, what would happen? Anyway, when I escape, I can try and find him. I''m pretty sure he won''t take me as a disciple, but it''s worth a try. I''m desperate after all.''
As the horse carriage passed through the gates and entered the city, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but be struck by the vibrant energy of the bustling metropolis. Green Lotus City was indeed worthy of its name, with lively streets filled with people and a flourishing market filled with stalls and shops.
As the carriage made its way through the crowded streets, Ximen Wei kept his eyes peeled for any opportunity to escape. He knew that he had to be ready to seize the moment when it presented itself. He nned to hide in the thick of a crowd and blend in with the other people, hoping to increase his chances of escape to the maximum.
Meanwhile, the noble fatty, Song Peizhi, continued to spit nonsense and prattle on, seemingly oblivious to Ximen Wei''s quiet plotting. Ximen Wei bided his time, waiting patiently for the right moment to make his move. He knew that the moment he regained his freedom, he would never let anyone take it away from him again.
Chapter 7 7 - Now Its Time
?''Now is the time!'' Ximen Wei thought to himself as he took a deep breath and prepared to make his move. As soon as the horse carriage entered the crowded market, he seized the opportunity and jumped out, his heart racing with anticipation.
Song Peizhi was caughtpletely off guard, still immersed in his stories and paying no attention to Ximen Wei. It took him a few moments to realize what had happened, and when he did, he erupted into a fit of rage. "GUARDS!" he yelled, his voice echoing through the crowded market.
Almost instantly, a group of city guards dressed in leather armor and wielding batons rushed to the carriage, awaiting orders. Song Peizhi''s status as a noble meant that he had a great deal of influence in the city, and with just a word, the guards were at his beck and call.
"Find that little rascal," hemanded, his face twisted with anger. "He looks like..." His voice trailed off as he tried to describe Ximen Wei, clearly agitated by the boy''s escape attempt.
As the guards began their search, Ximen Wei darted into the crowd, using his small, slender physique to his advantage as he moved quickly and stealthily through the throngs of people. He weaved and dodged around the other pedestrians, his movements fluid and graceful like a fish in water.
The guards could be seen moving through the crowd, inspecting every child they came across, but they were still a ways away from Ximen Wei. He knew he had to keep moving, had to keep one step ahead of them if he wanted to maintain his freedom.
Finally, after almost an hour of running and hiding, Ximen Wei found himself in an inconspicuous corner, panting roughly as he caught his breath. His escape had been a sess, and as long as he was careful, he knew he wouldn''t be caught.
''Great, I finally shook them off,'' he thought to himself, relieved that he had managed to outsmart his pursuers and escape their clutches. Now all he had to do was stay hidden andy low until he could figure out his next move.
''Now, I gotta be a Qi Expert!'' Ximen Wei thought to himself, his eyes shining brightly with determination as he considered the immense power that these mysterious figures held. He knew that bing a Qi Expert was the only way he could hope to return home and regain his freedom.
''The City Lord is a wind path Qi Expert,'' he mused to himself. ''Is that some sort of branch? If he can control wind, then maybe I can be a space path Qi Expert and control space?'' He couldn''t help but wonder what other amazing abilities these Qi Experts possessed, and he knew that he had to do whatever it took to be one of them.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Ximen Wei began to devise a n. He knew that he couldn''t just sit around and wait for things to happen ¨C he had to take control of his own destiny and make things happen for himself. And so, he set his sights on bing a Qi Expert, no matter what the cost.
''Now, I gotta be a Qi Expert!'' Ximen Wei thought to himself, his eyes shining brightly with determination as he considered the immense power that these mysterious figures held. He knew that bing a Qi Expert was the only way he could hope to return home and regain his freedom.
Qi is a mysterious and magical power that defies exnation. It takes countless forms, such as fire Qi, water Qi, lightning Qi, wind Qi, and many more. If one masters fire Qi, they be a fire path Qi Expert, a person who can control the power of fire. The same applies to the other forms of Qi.
Some people are naturally gifted with an affinity for a particr form of Qi, while others have to work hard to cultivate their abilities. But no matter what form it takes, Qi is a formidable force that can be harnessed and wielded by those who are skilled and determined enough to do so.
For those who seek to be Qi Experts, the path is long and difficult, full of challenges and obstacles. But for those who are able to ovee these challenges, the rewards are great. They gain incredible powers and abilities, and the respect and admiration of those around them. It is a journey that requires dedication, hard work, and a fierce desire to seed.
The City Lord of Green Lotus City is a wind path Rank 2 Qi Expert, a formidable figure whomands the power of the wind. Rumor has it that his punch carries the might of a tornado, and his breath alone is capable of summoning powerful winds that can topple trees and copse houses. Such is the strength and power of a Qi Expert, who can harness the elements and bend them to their will. It is a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold, and one that inspires both fear and respect in those who witness it.
''My path to returning home is a bit clearer now,'' Ximen Wei thought to himself as he considered his options. ''I hope the powers Qi Experts provide are enough, but if not... maybe with the long lifespan of Qi Experts, I can construct some sort of spaceship? But that''s a problem forter, after I be a Rank 5 Qi Expert.''
With that, Ximen Wei set his sights on a new goal: bing a legendary Rank 5 Qi Expert, no matter what it took. He knew it wouldn''t be easy, but he was determined to do whatever it took to achieve his dream. And so, with a fierce resolution shining in his deep, abyss-like eyes, he set off on his journey to greatness.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 8 8 - Im Sorry
?An image of a hazy, feminine figure appeared in front of Ximen Wei, and magically, the dirty, filthy surroundings transformed into a beautiful sunflower field. The sun shone brightly and the birds chirped happily as the girl turned to face him. She was wearing a white robe that extended to her knees, and a sunhat adorned with a crimson red flower. Despite her facial expressions being blurry, Ximen Wei could tell that she was smiling at him.
His breath turned ragged and his heart pounded loudly as he reached out his arm to her, but just as he thought he was about to touch her, she disintegrated into a cloud of ck particles that dispersed with the wind. ''I''m... sorry,'' Ximen Wei said quietly, his arms dropping to his sides as tears streamed down his face. ''When I''m back... I swear... I will fix everything. I won''t make the same mistakes again. I won''t ever hurt you again.''
Surrounded by filth and garbage, Ximen Wei sobbed quietly in the dark corner, his heart heavy with sorrow and regret. But after collecting himself, he wiped away his tears and stood up, determination and resolve shining through his dark, lifeless irises. He clenched his fists and looked up, facing the sky and the earth as he made a promise ¨C a promise to return home, return to Earth, and fix what he had broken. It was a promise that he would not break, no matter what the cost.
As he thought of the people he had left behind, an image of a hazy, feminine figure appeared before him. Magically, the filthy and dirty surroundings transformed into a beautiful sunflower field, with the sun shining brightly and the birds chirping happily.
The girl was dressed in a white robe that extended to her knees, and a sunhat adorned with a crimson red flower. She turned around and looked at Ximen Wei, and although her facial features were blurred, he could tell that she was smiling at him.
His breath grew rough and his heart thumped loudly as he reached out his arm towards her. But just as he was about to touch her, she disintegrated into a cloud of ck particles that dispersed on the wind.
''I''m... sorry,'' Ximen Wei whispered to himself, his heart heavy with regret.
Like a deted balloon, Ximen Wei''s arms dropped to his sides as tears streamed down his face. ''When I''m back... I swear... I will fix everything. I won''t repeat the same mistakes again. I won''t ever hurt you again,'' he promised himself, his heart heavy with regret and sorrow.
He had never felt so alone and helpless, and all he could do was let the tears flow freely.
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"Urgh! This humtion!" The fat middle-aged man with greasy, oily skin raged as he swept the table, sending a rain of tes, bowls, and cups crashing to the ground. "A lowly ve dares to escape?" Song Peizhi bellowed in anger, his face contorted with fury as he continued wreaking havoc in the mansion.
The maids and servants kept their heads low, fearing for their lives as they watched their noble master''s rage unfold. They all wished they could escape and hide until his anger was subdued, but they knew they had no choice but to endure it.
The mansion was filled with the sound of breaking dishes and the angry shouts of Song Peizhi as he vented his frustration. It was a scene of chaos and destruction, one that left the servants trembling in fear and desperation. They knew that they would have to wait until their master''s anger was spent before they could breathe a sigh of relief.
"Who tied up the lowly ve?" Song Peizhi lifted his head, his eyes brimming with anger, and asked a nearby butler. "S-Sir, it was Officer Fan-" The butler began to answer, but before he could finish his sentence, Song Peizhi erupted into a fit of rage. "Lock him up in the dungeon!" he yelled out loudly, his voice echoing through the mansion.
The butler cringed in fear, knowing that he had no choice but toply with his master''s orders. He quickly summoned a group of guards, who dragged Officer Fan away to the dungeon, where he would be locked up and punished for his failure.
Meanwhile, Song Peizhi continued to seethe with anger, his rage consuming him as he vowed to find Ximen Wei and make him pay for his escape. He would stop at nothing to see his ve brought back to him.
Everyone in Green Lotus City knew of Song Peizhi''s depraved and twisted practices, and how he took pleasure in torturing others, especially children. His "dungeon" had gained a nasty reputation over the years, with countless innocent lives lost within its walls.
Despite this, no one dared to speak out against him. His status as a noble, coupled with his powerful backing, made people turn a blind eye to his evil actions, even the City Lord of Green Lotus City, a Rank 2 Qi Expert, said nothing about it.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 9 9 - Survival
?"I want that lowly ve in the dungeon by tomorrow!" Song Peizhimanded once again, his voice filled with anger and determination. "Get working on it, Old Mao!" An old, shivering servant with a skinny body bowed deeply before him. "This servant heeds yourmand, my lord," he said, his voice trembling with fear.
"Good! No one shall ever tarnish the Song Family''s reputation!" Song Peizhi dered, his face twisted with malice as he moved towards the window. It was night, and the moon shone brightly in the sky, casting a pale light over the city.
The skynterns shone brightly in the night sky, each one glowing with a different color and casting a dazzling light over the city of Green Lotus. The streets were alive with activity, people bustling about as they went about their business, and the market was flourishing with stalls and shops.
But behind the scenes, there was a darkness lurking, one that threatened to consume everything in its path. Song Peizhi stood at the window, mesmerized by the city''s beauty, but his thoughts were twisted and perverted. He chuckled to himself and murmured in an eerily tone, "Ximen Wei, right? When you''re in my hands, I will make sure to savor you slowly, hehe..."
The man was a monster, taking pleasure in the suffering of others, and the very thought of him sent a chill down the spine of anyone who knew him. But in the city below, people went about their lives as if nothing was wrong, unaware of the darkness that lurked in the shadows.
Ximen Wei found himself in a dimly lit alley, surrounded by the stench of excrement and feces that littered the ground. The smell was overpowering, making it hard to breathe, and the surroundings were filled with a sense of despair and hopelessness.
He had been running for god knows how long, ever since he jumped out of the horse carriage. He was not familiar with the city and had just run as fast as he could, trying to shake off the city guards and escape. Eventually, he copsed in this alley, exhausted from the chase.
As he stood there, trying to catch his breath and figure out his next move. Ximen Wei knew that he had to leave Green Lotus City as soon as possible. The dangers that threatened his freedom were everywhere, and he knew that he could not afford to stay in one ce for too long. He had to keep moving, no matter how tired he was.
He knew that leaving through the city gates would be extremely dangerous, and he would have to find a way to smuggle himself out. Maybe he could hide inside a caravan''s goods, or find a way to blend in with the crowds. He had seen posters for wanted criminals and ve escapees while the horse carriage was passing through the city gates, and he knew that the city guards would be working diligently to catch anyone who tried to escape.
But there was another problem to consider: basic survival. He was an eight-year-old child, all alone in a city with no money or shelter. If he was ever caught begging in the streets, he knew he would be in serious trouble. He had to find a way to survive, even if it meant taking risks.
As he stood in the dark alley, his head was filled with worry and uncertainty. He knew that his journey would be tough.
Ximen Wei made his way through the crowded streets, his eyes scanning the area for potential targets. He knew that he had to steal in order to survive, and he was determined to do whatever it took to make it through the day.
The economic industry in Green Lotus City was flourishing, with merchants flocking to the city to trade their goods. Thanks to the protection of the Rank 2 Qi Expert, the city was considered one of the safest ces to do business. This made it the perfect ce for Ximen Wei to find wealthy merchants to steal from.
As he walked through the crowded streets, he was on the lookout for anyone who seemed wealthy or well-off. He knew that he had to be careful, and he couldn''t afford to get caught. But he was also desperate, and he knew that he had to do whatever it took to survive.
As Ximen Wei walked further into the outskirts of the city, the atmosphere changed from bustling and lively to deste and empty. The buildings were run-down and poorly maintained, and there were few people on the streets. asionally, he would catch glimpses of tattered figures in the broken windows of these buildings. These were the people who hade to the outskirts of the city to seek shelter - criminals, beggars, and ve escapees like himself.
Ximen Wei sighed at the thought of having to live among these people. He had always hoped for a better life, but it seemed like his circumstances were forcing him to live in the shadows, always on the run and hiding from those who would seek to enve him once again. Still, he knew that he had to do whatever it took to survive, and if that meant living among the marginalized and forgotten people of the city, then so be it.
"I guess I have no choice then." - Ximen Wei sighed as he looked at the dpidated buildings in front of him.
"I will have to join these outcasts and try to survive with them. At least, until I find a way out of this city."
The air inside the building was stuffy and musty, the smell of sweat and dirt filled the atmosphere. Ximen Wei could see thin nkets and rags covering the figures on the ground, all of them huddled together in an attempt to keep warm. The children looked malnourished and their eyes were dull, a clear indication of their poor living conditions. Some of the adults had wounds and scars on their bodies, a testament to their rough lives on the streets. Overall, the scene was pitiful and heart-wrenching. Ximen Wei could feel a pang of sadness and despair in his heart as he realized that this is his new reality, at least for now.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 10 10 - Criminals District
?As Ximen Wei walked through the crowded building, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of sorrow for the people sleeping on the floor. Their worn and tattered clothes, paired with the youthful innocence of the children, tugged at his heartstrings. But as he scanned the room, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease when his gazended on a group of rough-looking men.
These men were clearly dangerous criminals, with weapons such as clubs, knives, and even swords strapped to their belts. Their faces were hard and rugged, with scars and tattoos adorning their skin. The aura emanating from them was intimidating, filled with a dense killing intent that made Ximen Wei''s hair stand on end.
In spite of his fear, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of curiosity as he made his way through the crowded building. The rough-looking men, with their weapons and intimidating auras, seemed to pay him no attention as he walked by. It was as if he was invisible to them, or perhaps they were simply used to seeing orphans and ve escapees like himself in this district.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of caution as he carefully navigated through the building, aware that he was surrounded by dangerous individuals who wouldn''t hesitate to attack if provoked. But as he observed the people around him, he couldn''t shake off the feeling of pity for those who were forced to live in such harsh and dangerous conditions. The beggars and orphans, with their worn and tattered clothes, seemed so innocent and helpless, and Ximen Wei couldn''t help but wonder how they had ended up in such a ce.
For all the fear that lurked in the back of his mind, Ximen Wei continued on his way.
Ximen Wei leaned against the pir, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. Despite the fact that he was in a den filled with dangerous criminals, he didn''t feel threatened in the slightest. No one had shown any malicious intent towards him, allowing him to finally rx and let out a sigh.
''This ce can offer me shelter for a while, and I don''t think the guards wille here,'' he thought to himself. ''Since my safety isn''t an issue right now, I need to think of a way to leave this city and start my cultivation journey.''
The thought of cultivating Qi brought a bright light to Ximen Wei''s eyes. It was the dream of many young people, and for Ximen Wei, it was his only hope of returning home. Without the supernatural powers of Qi Experts, he knew that he had no chance of reuniting with his family.
''As long as I can be a Qi Expert, I''ll be able to return to my home,'' he thought, determination shining in his eyes. Cultivating Qi was his primary goal now, and as long as he could do so, he could leave this rotten world and be reunited with his true family.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of frustration as he thought about how to start his cultivation journey. ''How do I go about this though? Where can I find people who are willing to teach me Qi?'' he wondered.
He knew that Qi Experts were few and far between, often busy with their own cultivation or enjoying the luxuries of life. Finding someone who was willing to teach him would be a difficult task in itself, and even if he did manage to find such a person, how would he be able to provide sufficient payment? As poor as a pauper, Ximen Wei knew that he wouldn''t be able to offer much in terms ofpensation, unlike the wealthy nobles such as Song Peizhi.
Qi Experts ced a strong emphasis on equal exchange, and without enough benefits to drive them, they would never agree to teach a stranger their precious cultivation methods. ''Unless I find a cultivation manual? But where would I find such a thing¡,'' Ximen Wei thought to himself.
He knew that information about Qi cultivation was restricted and not easily essible. In markets and shops, it would be nearly impossible to find any materials on the subject. Even if he did manage to find a book or manual about cultivation, it would likely only contain superficial information such as stories and legends about Qi Experts. Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of despair as he realized the obstacles that stood in his way.
From his own personal experience, he had read tens of books about cultivation, yet none of them had mentioned basic concepts such as ranks or techniques.
''Come to think of it, since Song Peizhi knows confidential information about Qi Experts, he must have some sort of manual or techniques that could help me cultivate,'' Ximen Wei thought to himself, a malicious glint appearing in his eyes as he began to scheme.
But as he considered the idea further, he knew that it was too risky. The mansion of a noble would have strict security, and if he were caught trying to steal cultivation techniques, he knew that he might never see the light of day again.
ve escapees who were caught were often executed, with only a few exceptions that fared no better. They were subjected to harsh punishments that could cripple them both physically and mentally. Ximen Wei valued his own safety above all else, and he knew that he wouldn''t risk his life unless there was at least an 80% chance of sess.
Plus, he was still young, and he believed that he woulde across safer and more stable opportunities for cultivating Qi in the future. ''I''m too tired for now, I should sleep,'' he thought, hoping that he would find something interesting the next day.
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asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 11 11 - Long Gang
?Ximen Wei had always known that the city would be tough, but he never could have imagined just how far he would sink in order to survive. In the two years since he arrived, he had be a criminal, preying on the weak and desperate in order to make ends meet. He had no qualms about stealing from merchants, mugging unsuspecting travelers, or even picking pockets in crowded markets.
As he roamed the streets, always on the lookout for his next opportunity, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride in his cunning and resourcefulness. But deep down, he knew that this life was not sustainable. He was constantly looking over his shoulder, wondering when his luck would run out and he would be caught by the guards.
Despite the dangers, Ximen Wei found a sense of belonging in the Criminal District, a ce where outcasts and fugitives could hide from thew and build their own twisted version of society. It was here that he joined a gang, finding strength in numbers and a sense of purpose in the group''s illicit activities.
Yet even as he rose through the ranks and gained the respect of his fellow gang members, Ximen Wei couldn''t shake the feeling that he was trapped in a never-ending cycle of crime and violence. He knew that he needed to find a way out, but he couldn''t see any path forward. For now, he was stuck in the shadows, living a life of sin and desperation.
"Ximen Wei, wake up! We''re in trouble!"
Inside a broken wooden house, a child around the age of 13 was fumbling around in a panic. Ximen Wei sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he looked at the boy, who was panting and sweating.
"Hou Yang? What''s happening? Why did you wake me up?" Ximen Wei asked, taking in the sight of the boy. Hou Yang was an orphan, around the age of 13, and a member of the gang that Ximen Wei had joined. His skin was a sickly yellow color, and his disheveled dark hair was stered to his forehead with sweat. His clothes were ragged and dirty, with patches sewn haphazardly all over the ce.
"They are cracking down on us! I''ve just heard they raided the Kang gang and Luo gang''s headquarters¡ They''re doing a purge!" Hou Yang gasped out, fear etched on his face.
"Wait, what? What gave them the guts? Are you sure? Luo gang leader is a stage 2 Qi Trainee," Ximen Wei said, frowning in confusion. He had done his research on Qi Experts, knowing that intel and information were more easily essible within criminal organizations.
To be a Qi Expert, one had to pass through three stages. The first stage involved sensing the Qi in the surroundings. The second stage involved controlling the Qi, and the third stage involved absorbing the Qi bit by bit to strengthen the body and prepare it for "Qi Ascension". These people, who were in the process of bing Qi Experts, were called Qi Trainees. Ximen Wei still didn''t know much about Qi Ascension, but he knew that in the criminal district, as long as you had the money, you could buy anything.
"The-They said the Noble Families dispatched their troops, including multiple Qi Trainees and even the Level 3 Fu Rong!" Hou Yang eximed, his voice shaking with fear.
Ximen Wei''s eyes widened in shock at the news. A level 3 Qi Trainee was no joke! Someone at that level could easily wipe out the entire criminal district, unless the big shots intervened, which was unlikely since they preferred to keep a low profile.
"Where are we going though?" Ximen Wei asked, his mind racing as he tried toe up with a n.
"First we are getting Jin Bao and Lai Yaoting, then we will meet up with the boss. The boss said he has a n for us," Hou Yang replied, looking relieved to have a n in ce.
Jin Bao and Lai Yaoting were also orphan children who had joined the gang in order to make a living and survive in this cruel environment. Like Ximen Wei, they were part of the Long gang, which was almost entirely made up of orphans. In the criminal district, it seemed that all gang members were either criminals, orphans, or ve escapees.
"A n for us?" Ximen Wei repeated, feeling a sense of unease wash over him.
"Yes, he said we are going to leave the city and travel up south to the Tang Mountains. Boss Long Gen said he knows someone there," Hou Yang replied, frowning at the thought.
The Tang Mountains were an area known for their dangers and ferocious beasts, and without the help of a powerful Qi Trainee or Qi Expert, one would surely perish. But when Ximen Wei heard this, his eyes shone with hope. Surely, anyone who could survive in the Tang Mountains must be at least a level 3 Qi Trainee or a Qi Expert, right?
"Alright¡ Let''s get Jin Bao and Lao Yoating and go," Ximen Wei said, determination in his voice as he stood up. He knew that this would be a risky journey, but he was willing to take the risk if it meant that he could start his cultivation journey and eventually return home.
After gathering the other two members, Ximen Wei and the group made their way to a deste alley and met up with the rest of the Long gang. Fortunately, they met with no obstacles on the way, and the purge team of the Noble Families was still a good distance away, giving them enough time to prepare and leave the city.
As Ximen Wei arrived at the meeting ce, he was surprised to see that almost every person in the Long gang was a child. Each and every one of them was an orphan, ranging in age from 8 to 14. They all looked worn and tired, with dirty clothes and gaunt faces, but there was a fire in their eyes that showed they were determined to survive.
"Alright, listen up," a boy around the age of 13, who was apparently the leader of the gang, spoke up. "We are going to leave the city and head to the Tang Mountains. Boss Long Gen has arranged for us to meet with someone there who can help us. It''s going to be a dangerous journey, but we have to take the risk if we want to survive. Are you all with me?"
There was a chorus of agreement from the group, and Ximen Wei nodded along with them, determined to see this journey through to the end.
Chapter 12 12 - Long Gang(2)
?As Ximen Wei looked around at the group, he couldn''t help but wonder what the leader of the gang, Long Gen, had nned for them. Was he nning to use them as cannon fodder? Or perhaps sell them to a ve trafficker? And where were the seniors of the gang?
A few minutes passed by, and finally, an old man wearing a dark n robe appeared. This was Long Gen, the leader of the Long gang. He had appeared out of nowherest year and started recruiting people, mostly children whose parents had been lost or killed in the war between Western Wen and the Su Dynasty. He provided shelter and food for the children, in exchange for their dirty work.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease as he looked at Long Gen. He knew that this journey was going to be dangerous, and he couldn''t shake off the feeling that something was off about the gang leader. But he had no choice but to follow along, hoping that everything would work out in the end.
Ximen Wei had joined Long Gen''s gang a few months ago, and as the gang leader arrived, all of the children looked at him with a respectful gaze. In this harsh world, other gangs did not ept weak, orphaned children, as they were seen as a burden and trouble.
Long Gen stood before the group, his left hand behind his back as he stroked his white beard with his right hand. After eyeing the children for a moment, he nodded and spoke in a gruff voice.
"Good, everyone is here. I''m pretty sure some of you have heard this already, but let me repeat it just in case anyone didn''t. The Noble Families of Green Lotus City have teamed up and started cracking down on criminal organizations. As a result, we can''t stay here anymore or we''ll either be caught or killed. So I''ve decided to leave the city and head towards the Tang Mountains. I have someone there who will take good care of us. But be warned, the Tang Mountains are a dangerous ce, filled with beasts and monsters. If you want to leave, leave now or it will be toote."
Ximen Wei listened intently, his heart racing with a mix of fear and resolve. If it meant that he could start his cultivation journey and eventually return home.
As Long Gen finished speaking, some of the children immediately left after saying goodbye. They knew that their current group would not stand a chance against even the weakest Qi Beast in the Tang Mountains, and they were not willing to risk their lives for nothing.
Others, like Ximen Wei, asked about logistics and food, but the response they received was disappointing. "We''ll be going on foot and you children will have to take care of your own food," Long Gen said gruffly.
As Ximen Wei listened to Long Gen''s words, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of despair. "Going on foot? Taking care of our own food? How are we supposed to do that? We can''t even find enough food for the day in the bustling Green Lotus City, let alone outside in the wilderness..." he thought to himself.
Upon hearing this, even more children left, leaving only 11 people remaining, including Ximen Wei, Hou Yang, Jin Bao, and Lao Yaoting. These people had no choice but to leave the city and escape to a faraway ce. Their lives were endangered, as they were either people who had escaped from the clutches of the noble families or were unable to live without the support of an organization or gang.
Everyone was puzzled by Long Gen''s n. They had expected that he would somehow smuggle them out of the city, but now it seemed that they would have to leave on their own. How were they supposed to do that? If they left the Criminal District, they would be immediately apprehended by thew enforcers, as escaping very was considered a serious crime.
The group of children stood huddled together, uncertain of what to do next. They had always relied on the guidance and protection of their leader, Long Gen, but now he had left them on their own to escape the city. The task seemed impossible - they knew that if they tried to leave the Criminal District, they would be caught by thew enforcers and punished as escaped ves. The thought of being caught and returning to a life of very filled them with dread.
Ximen Wei, the group''s second-inmand, tried to think of a solution. "Maybe we can sneak in a merchant''s carriage," he suggested, but even he knew that the idea was risky. Lao Yaoting, one of the younger members, looked defeated. "How are we supposed to leave the city on our own?" he asked, his voiceced with despair.
Jin Bao, who had been quiet until now, suddenly spoke up. "I''d rather risk it all than be a ve for the rest of my life," he said, his voice shaking. Ximen Wei knew that the mention of the word "ve" triggered some traumatic memories for Jin Bao, and he couldn''t help but feel sorry for him. Lao Yaoting and Ximen Wei both nodded in agreement. "Same," they said in unison.
They turned to Hou Yang, thest member of their group, and asked for his opinion. "I''d rather get caught trying than just await my fate," he said through gritted teeth. With that, the decision was made - they would try to leave the city, no matter how risky it was.
As they were discussing their n, they heard the sound of fightinging from a couple of miles away.
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asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 13 13 - Cornered
?The extermination squad of the Noble Families is a formidable group of powerful soldiers, guards, and cultivators, all led by the noble heirs, including Song Peizhi. They are all gathered inside a fortified wooden house that was once the base of a powerful underworld criminal organization, surrounded by armored guards and cultivators. The squad isposed of skilled and determined individuals, all trying to prove themselves to their powerful noble families.
The once-dangerous wooden house, that served as a safe haven for criminals andw breakers, has undergone a drastic transformation. It has been repurposed as a training ground for cultivators and nobles, where they can hone their skills and develop their powers. Inside, the nobles were deep in discussion, strategizing their next move when a servant entered the room. The servant whispered something into Song Peizhi''s ears, causing a wide grin to spread across his face. In response, he discreetly gave amand to his servant Old Mao.
The news brought by the scout was a surprise to the nobles gathered inside the wooden house. The scouts had spotted some familiar children running around in the streets, children who had once escaped from Song Peizhi. The nobles, known for their pretentious nature and emphasis on status and prestige, were taken aback by this revtion. Despite the passage of two years, Song Peizhi had not forgotten about Ximen Wei and other ve escapees. He had repeatedly sent city guards to capture them, but once they entered the Criminal District, the guards dared not chase them any more. The Criminal District in Green Lotus City is a dangerous ce that despisesw enforcers and nobles, and ordinary guards are no match for the armed gangs that operate there. It was through these means that Ximen Wei had survived for two years without getting caught.
The opportunity presented itself as a chance for redemption for Song Peizhi, as the Criminal District was facing its downfall. He saw this as the perfect opportunity to wipe away the stain of embarrassment from his family''s name and prove that the Song family''s defenses were not as loose as they were perceived to be. Old Mao, who had served Song Peizhi for many years, nodded in understanding and epted themand. He too was filled with a sense of embarrassment, having let down his master for the past two years by not being able to capture a single 10-year-old child who was running loose in the city. Determined to make amends, Old Mao strengthened his resolve and prepared to go all out. His body emitted energy undtions unique to that of a Level 1 Qi Trainee as he disappeared from sight, ready to take on the task at hand.
Meanwhile, Ximen Wei and his crew were running in the opposite direction of the extermination squad, their goal being to find a safe ce, catch their breath ande up with a proper escape n. As they reached the outskirts of the Criminal District, Ximen Wei signaled for Hou Yang and the others to stop. "Oh no, looks like this street is blocked." Their way out was obstructed by a line of soldiers at the other end of the street. The group of children panicked, unsure of what to do next. "We have to hurry or they will catch up to us!" Ximen Wei tried his best to remain calm and collected, he had no desire to get caught like the others. He had been given another chance at freedom, and he intended to grasp it tightly. He observed the soldiers and guards as his mind worked at full speed, trying toe up with an idea that would get them out of this predicament. His gaze darted around the area, taking in every detail as he searched for a way out. The tension was palpable as the group waited for Ximen Wei toe up with a n.
''Damn it, if we brought the other children along, our chances of running past this group of 4 soldiers will be higher..'' Unfortunately, when Ximen Wei was stilling up with a n, a gruff voice rang out beside the four children. "Ohh, so you rats have been hiding here?"
Ximen Wei''s heart raced as he quickly scanned the alley for an escape route. His eyes darted to the left and right, searching for any opportunity to slip past the old man. But as he turned to run, he found that the old man had already positioned himself in front of him, blocking his path. The old man''s wrinkled skin stretched as he grinned, revealing a set of yellowed teeth. His dark bags under his eyes seemed to deepen as heughed.
Ximen Wei''s mind raced as he tried to think of a way to escape. He knew that he couldn''t outrun the old man, and he didn''t have any weapons to defend himself. He quickly assessed his options, but before he could make a decision, the old man lunged forward, his bony fingers reaching out to grab him.
Ximen Wei''s small, nimble body came in handy as he darted to the side, narrowly avoiding the old man''s grasp. He turned on his heel and sprinted down the alley, his feet pounding the pavement as he pushed himself to run faster. The old man''sughter echoed behind him, but Ximen Wei didn''t dare to look back. He knew that if he slowed down, even for a moment, the old man would catch him.
As he reached the end of the alley, Ximen Wei''s lungs burned and his legs felt like lead. He knew that he couldn''t keep this pace up for much longer, but he didn''t have a choice. He could hear the old man''s footsteps getting closer and closer, and he knew that if he didn''t find a way to escape, he would be caught.
"Stand still!" A loud andmanding voice boomed through the air,manding all movement to cease with its powerful and piercing tone. The sound seemed to echo and reverberate through the space, causing even the solid ground beneath Ximen Wei''s feet to tremble. Despite the suddenness of themand, he found himself struggling to maintain his bnce, staggering slightly as the world came to a sudden halt around him.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 14 14 - Terror Of A Qi Trainee!
?As a Level 1 Qi Trainee, Old Mao had a natural affinity with the Qi in his surroundings. This allowed him to influence the surrounding Qi, although at a minuscule level. If he had been a Level 2 Qi Trainee, however, his cries would have had the power to freeze Ximen Wei''s bodypletely.
As Old Mao was closing in on Ximen Wei, Hou Yang quickly threw a rock in Old Mao''s direction, hitting him in the face. Despite the weak throwing force of a 13-year-old, it was enough to distract Old Mao and give Ximen Wei the precious time he needed to make some distance. Lao Yaoting quickly followed up by throwing more rocks at Old Mao, while Jin Bao tugged at his legs and quietly sobbed.
Ever since Ximen Wei caught sight of Old Mao approaching, his face turned ashen white and his body began to tremble uncontrobly. Not many noble households in Green Lotus City could withstand such a traumatic experience, especially for a young child. As Jin Bao''s pitiful figure came into view, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but sigh and make a connection between him and Song Peizhi. However, he knew that now was not the time to dwell on such thoughts as his own life and freedom were currently at stake.
"Sir, why are you doing this?" Despite knowing that it would likely not work, Ximen Wei still tried to put on a frightened act and plead with Old Mao, hoping to take advantage of his innocence as a 10-year-old child and evoke some empathy from the older man. But, it would have been better if he had not asked the question, as it only seemed to infuriate Old Mao further and caused him to unsheathe his sword. The glint of the de in the dim light sent a shiver down Ximen Wei''s spine, as he knew that he was facing an opponent who would not hesitate to take his life.
The two children standing in front of Old Mao had been causing him immense frustration and turmoil for the past two years. His master had tasked him with bringing them back to the fold, but despite his numerous attempts, he had consistently failed to capture them. These two young rats had managed to evade him at every turn, hiding out in the Criminal District and only emerging to steal food from unsuspecting merchants.
As a result of his repeated failures, Old Mao''s standing in his master''s eyes had diminished greatly. He had gone from being a trusted right-hand man to nothing more than a mere aide. And now, these lowly orphans had the audacity to throw rocks at him? The humiliation was almost too much to bear.
Fueled by anger and a desire to wash away the shame he felt, Old Mao decided to take matters to a deadly level. His de glinted in the sunlight as he exuded an aura of bloodlust and killing intent. As he prepared to strike, Old Mao''s heart sank further as he realized that his actions would likely lead to his demise. At least when his master caught them, he would have a chance to keep his life and make aeback. But now, things were far from simple.
Old Mao''s sword descended with lightning speed, slicing through the air with a deadly precision. The dended with a sickening thud on Jin Bao''s shoulder, causing a spray of blood to erupt in all directions. The group of onlookers recoiled in horror as they witnessed Jin Bao''s body being hacked in two, with an ear-piercing scream of agony ringing through the air. The sight of their friend''s lifeless bodyying before them was enough to make their stomachs churn with disgust and fear. Ximen Wei, who had been caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, quickly realized the gravity of the situation. Without hesitation, he turned on his heel and bolted away from the scene, his speed surpassing even that of Old Mao. "Hey! Kid,e here!" Old Mao bellowed as he chased after Ximen Wei, disregarding the pleas of Hou Yang and Lao Yaoting.
The soldiers, who had been alerted by the suddenmotion, quickly made their way towards the alley. As they approached, they caught sight of Ximen Wei''s figure darting out at an rming speed. Despite their attempts to shout and call out to him, he didn''t seem to hear them and continued on his escape. The soldiers were taken aback by the suddenness of his movements and the swiftness of his escape. They knew that they needed to act quickly if they were going to capture him.
Just as they were about to give chase, another figure suddenly emerged from the shadows and dashed away, leaving the soldiers momentarily stunned.
As they regained theirposure and set off in pursuit, they couldn''t help but be struck by the energy undtions radiating off of the figure. It was clear that this person was a Level 1 Qi Trainee, but their intentions were still unknown.
As they entered the alley, their eyes were met with a gruesome sight. The ground was stained red with blood, and the air was thick with the iron smell of it. Three young children, no older than 13,y motionless on the ground, their bodies mangled and torn apart. The soldiers gasped in shock and disgust, their hearts heavy with sorrow at the sight of such senseless violence.
As they stood there, the weight of the situation became all too real for them. They couldn''t help but let out a sigh as they gazed upon the gruesome scene before them. The walls were smeared with fresh blood, a gruesome reminder of the increasing cruelty of the nobles. This was not an umon sight in the Criminals District, where the powerful and wealthy sought to silence those who knew too much or simply indulged in their twisted desires under the guise of "justice" and "safety of themon people." Song Peizhi was just one of many nobles who were responsible for such atrocities. The thought of it all made their stomachs churn with disgust and anger. They knew that something needed to be done to stop this cycle of violence and oppression, but the question was, who would have the courage to stand up against such powerful figures?
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 15 15 - Defeat
?Ximen Wei deftly weaved through the winding alleys and bustling streets, his heart pounding as he desperately tried to shake off Old Mao''s pursuit. Though he was ustomed to evading capture by guards orw enforcement, this was his first time being chased by someone as formidable as Old Mao.
Ximen Wei''s speed surpassed the limits of what one might expect from a child of his age, as the ominous threat of death hung heavy over him.
Ximen Wei knew that his only hope for survival was to escape the Criminal District and blend in with the crowds of people in Green Lotus City. The city was home to numerous bustling markets teeming with people, but he needed time to reach one. Unfortunately, Old Mao was not giving him that opportunity.
"Filthy rat, you aremendable for your speed, I wonder how you will fare against this!" Old Mao''s voice boomed behind Ximen Wei, as he sprinted through the streets. Just as Ximen Wei was wondering about the implications of Old Mao''s words, he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end as a gust of wind brushed past his cheeks. Old Mao, still in pursuit, raised his sword and with a flick of his wrist, a peculiar energy materialized at the tip of his sword. "Qi Technique ¨C Energy Sword!" he shouted, as he brought the sword down with a powerful sh. A st of wind followed, and the energy caught up to Ximen Wei, slicing through his back. Despite the searing pain, Ximen Wei pushed forward, his speed not slowing in the slightest.
Qi trainees, and particrly Qi experts, possess extraordinary abilities and techniques that seem to defymon sense and logic. Even from a distance of three to four meters, Old Mao was able to magically strike Ximen Wei, though the hit was not powerful enough to pose a mortal threat to him
Even so, if Old Mao''s pursuit continues, Ximen Wei will inevitably sumb to death. Old Mao''s voice echoed once more, this time, it seemed to ring inside Ximen Wei''s very ears. "Kiddo, running is futile. I''ll show you why Qi trainees and experts are feared by the masses. Rat, I want to end this quickly! You should feel honored to have forced me to this extent," Old Mao taunted.
''Force you? What did I do? I am just running for my dear life! Please, whatever it is, do not do it!''
Ximen Wei''s plea for mercy went unanswered as he felt the oxygen levels around him drop and his movements be stiff. "Qi Technique - Enfeeble!" The words echoed in his mind as he felt his legs weaken and be wobbly. He struggled to catch his breath as sweat poured down his face. All of his energy seemed to drain out of his body, leaving him unable to continue running. He stumbled and fell to the ground, feeling defeated and helpless.
A desperate expression surfaced on Ximen Wei''s face as he thought, ''Is this it? Is this my end?'' But just as he was about to ept his fate, he heard Old Mao''s voice once more, "Qi Technique - sh!" His body turned into a blur as he appeared in front of Ximen Wei, the old man sneered, "No matter who it is, they are mere ants in front of Qi Trainees and Qi Experts! Rat, let this be a lesson for you, when you go to the afterlife, remember to not provoke the Song family!"
Ximen Wei''s vision became blurry as Old Mao''s voice continued to echo inside his ears. His senses dulled as a hazy feeling overwhelmed him, just like a person who had drunk too much beer. Old Mao raised his sword, ready to deal the final blow when a new voice rang out. "Leave him alive, I''ve got uses for him." It was Song Peizhi, the fatty, and a malicious, creepy smile surfaced upon his face as he rubbed his hands together, clearly thinking about how he was going to spend the night with all the new toys he had acquired.
Behind him, Ximen Wei saw a line of children of all ages, their hands and feet roped together, rendering them unable to escape. The sight made his face pale even further, fear and despair taking hold of him as he realized the true nature of his captors.
Ximen Wei''s chances of escape now seemed impossible, the two figures standing beside Song Peizhi were emitting even more powerful energy than Old Mao. He knew that if he even tried to pull off a trick in front of these powerful individuals, he would be caught instantly. He struggled to get up, his body weak and trembling with fear. He knew that there was no point in resisting and obediently handed himself over, his head hung low in defeat. The thought of what might happen to him at the hands of these cruel captors filled him with dread, and he could only hope that somehow, he would find a way to survive and escape.
Ximen Wei tried to hold onto a shred of hope, telling himself, "Hey, look at the positive side, at least I get to keep my life, right?" But deep down, he knew that his life was going to be a living hell from now on. Song Peizhi was one of the cruelest nobles in Green Lotus City. Just the stories of his "dungeon" were enough to instill fear in the hearts of themon people and make children cry all night long. The terror of Song Peizhi''s dungeon could be seen in Jin Bao''s actions. Nightmares haunted the poor boy as he used to wake up every night, sobbing quietly in the corner. Now, Ximen Wei was going to visit that same dungeon. The thought of it made him shiver with fear, knowing that he might note out alive or the same person. He felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead as he imagined the endless possibilities of what horrors awaited him in that dungeon. His heart was pounding in his chest as the reality of his situation set in, and he knew that he might never see the light of day again.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 16 16 - Scroll
?An elderly man stood atop the towering city walls, his jet-ck hairbed neatly and his dark robe fluttering in the wind. He exuded the air of an immortal sage, with an aura of wisdom and tranquility. The sight of him standing there, overlooking the bustling city below, was both eerie and awe-inspiring.
Long Gen, the former gang leader of the Long Gang, stood on a rooftop overlooking the city. He stroked his ck beard thoughtfully as he observed a group of children tangling with the city guards below. "Six. Caught," he murmured in a low voice, barely audible to anyone nearby.
His hawk-like gaze moved to another area, where he noticed a medical team wrapping up three bodies. An eyebrow raised in surprise at the sight of the dead children, but his expression quickly returned to its usual nonchnt demeanor. He let out a sigh, "Three dead," he murmured before turning away from the view.
Finally, Long Gen''s gazended on a small figure that was chained up to a grand, ornate carriage belonging to a Noble. The figure was a young boy, no older than 10 years old, with a look of fear and desperation etched on his face.
"Another one caught... sigh," Long Gen let out a sigh of disappointment as he observed the scene. "Looks like this year''s Sect recruitment is an utter failure. However, I''m pretty sure this one is an exception," he murmured under his breath. As he spoke, his eyes were fixed on the young boy, his expression softening slightly. It was clear that he was referring to the boy, Ximen Wei, as the exception.
Upon their first encounter with the child. They were struck by the child''s exceptional Qi affinity, which was almost unnatural in its strength. It was as if the Qi was drawn to the child''s body, clinging closely to their form.
He could easily see that with proper guidance and training, the child had the potential to be a highly skilled Qi Expert. However, the rules of the Sect were strict, and even someone with remarkable Qi affinity was required to pass the Sect''s tests in order to be epted as a disciple.
But there was always room for exception, as the rules could be bent if someone showed exceptional promise. In this case, the child had already demonstrated their potential bysting an impressive three minutes and twenty-four seconds against a Level 1 Qi Trainee, despite having no prior cultivation experience. He was astounded by the child''s capabilities and couldn''t help butmend them for their remarkable feat at such a young age.
The old man''s wrinkled hand reached out and grasped a tattered scroll, seemingly conjured from the ether. Its surface was dotted with age, the once white parchment now yellowed with time, and its edges curled and frayed. Despite its dpidated appearance, the scroll held immense value, this very scroll is enough to bankrupt Noble families and even cause powerful organizations to wage war amongst themselves.
As Long Gen stood atop the city walls, his eyes were fixated on the vast and endless sky. The sky was adorned with a myriad of colors, as numerous skynterns floated gracefully in the air. Suddenly, Long Gen''s eyes narrowed, and his lips curled into a sly smile. In a low, raspy voice, he muttered to himself, "Ximen Wei, right? I''ll lend you a small hand¡ I hope you don''t disappoint me."
As he spoke, a powerful energy began to surge from within Long Gen. It was a force that only those who have mastered the art of Qi could harness. With a flick of his wrist, Long Gen unleashed a powerful Qi Technique - the Void Transfer. The space around him cracked, and a terrifying hole appeared in the air. In an instant, the scroll that Ximen Wei needed to be a Level 3 Qi Trainee was sucked into the hole and vanished without a trace.
Long Gen stood there,pletely unperturbed by the disy of his immense power. He looked up at the sky once again, lost in its beauty. "I''m feeling a faint connection between us as well¡ You may be the one I''m waiting for, Ximen Wei..." he murmured to himself. And with that, Long Gen''s illusory figure dissipated into the wind, as if he had melted away like snowkes on a warm summer day.
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Ximen Wei trudged along the dirt path, his heart heavy with despair. The hot sun beat down on him mercilessly, but he felt a chill run down his spine as he thought about what awaited him and the other children. They were herded together like sheep, surrounded by guards wielding sharp spears and cold eyes. The children''s feet were covered in dirt and bruises, their legs sore from the long journey they had been forced to undertake.
Their faces were etched with fear, their eyes wide and lost as they gazed ahead at the towering walls of the Song family mansion in the distance. The once lively and carefree children now looked like broken shells of their former selves, their faces marked with the unmistakable look of hopelessness.
Ximen Wei knew whaty ahead for them, the horrors of the Song family''s dungeon, where they would be locked away in the dark, cold cells for the rest of their lives. The thought of it was enough to make him feel physically ill. He nced around at his fellow captives, their faces a picture of defeat, their eyes empty and hollow. They all knew what was in store for them, and the hopelessness of their situation was almost unbearable.
The journey seemed tost forever, each step feeling like a cruel reminder of what was toe. The children stumbled and faltered, but the guards urged them on with sharp jabs and cruel words. Ximen Wei felt like he was in a living nightmare, his future taken away from him before he had a chance to live.
Ximen Wei thought to himself since he escaped once, why can he not escape a second time?
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 17 17 - Place Of Terror
?Song Peizhi stood tall and proud atop the carriage, basking in the warm glow of his recent sess. Apanied by Old Mao and two other guards, he was on top of the world. The hunt had been fruitful, and he had seeded in restoring his family''s name and prestige.
His excitement was palpable, his wide smile stretching from ear to ear, illuminating his chubby face. He gazed upon the passing children with a hungry look in his eyes, savoring the thought of tonight''s meal.
His happiness was infectious, and his guards shared in his joy. They all stood in triumphant solidarity, with the sun beating down on their broad shoulders, as they rode through the bustling streets. The weight of the world seemed to have lifted from Peizhi''s shoulders, and he basked in the glory of his sess.
Old Mao, who was used to his master''s actions and habits, simply looked on with a calm and unbothered expression. However, the two other Level 2 Qi Trainees guards who were standing guard alongside him couldn''t help but frown in distaste as they gazed at Song Peizhi. Their eyebrows were furrowed, a clear indication of their displeasure and disgust towards the noble. They wondered how someone like Song Peizhi could be considered a noble, with his actions and behavior that were far from noble-like. They couldn''t help but question how he was able to get away with such behavior and still maintain his status as a noble. The two guards were left confused and frustrated, wondering if there was any justice in this world.
The world of cultivators is a ruthless one where strength is the ultimate measure of worth. Song Peizhi, a rotund man, is well aware of this. He knows that if it weren''t for the power of his father, he would have faced a brutal punishment from the masses. His father is a highly respected Rank 1 Qi Expert and protector of Green Lotus City, a city that is situated on the border of Su Dynasty and Western Wen. The protection of the city is vital, as it is constantly at risk of invasion. Without the aid of Qi Experts and Qi Trainees, the city would have long since fallen.
This is why the higher ups are willing to overlook the actions of individuals like Song Peizhi, despite his unsavory behavior. Despite the fact that he may havemitted atrocities, the power of his father serves as a deterrent to those who would seek to punish him. Even if people publicly condemn his actions, in reality, they are powerless to stop him. The deterrence of strength and powerful Qi Experts is a force to be reckoned with.
The world of cultivators is one where only the strong survive. Song Peizhi knows this, and he uses the power of his father to his advantage. Despite his own shorings, he is able to act with impunity, knowing that his father''s strength serves as a shield to protect him from those who would seek to bring him to justice. The world of cultivators is a cruel one, but with the right backing, anyone can do anything they please.
Ximen Wei was filled with awe as he witnessed the incredible transformation in Old Mao. Despite his weak and fragile appearance, Old Mao''s physique had undergone a remarkable change, all due to his mastery of Qi. Ximen Wei was filled with a deep longing to attain the same level of mastery and control over Qi.
He marveled at the thought of what he would be if he was able to reach the same level as Old Mao. His body, which was already young and full of energy, would be even stronger, more resilient, and more powerful. Ximen Wei could not help but imagine what level of power a Level 2 or Level 3 Qi Trainee would possess, or even a legitimate Qi Expert. The potential for growth and mastery was limitless.
Despite his current circumstances of being captured in a foreign world, Ximen Wei remained hopeful. He was determined to go back home to be with his friends and family. This was the driving force behind his persistence and determination. If it wasn''t for his loved ones, Ximen Wei would have lost all hope and taken his own life. But now, he had a purpose, a reason to push forward and strive to be a powerful Qi Expert.
"Quicker!"
Ximen Wei was abruptly yanked from his thoughts by the crack of a whip, wielded by a guard with a stern expression. He surveyed his surroundings and was met with the heartbreaking sight of young children, enved and forced to work. In modern-day Earth, a person like Song Peizhi, who was responsible for this, would have been publicly denounced and brought to justice. But here, it was a different story.
As Ximen Wei approached a grand and luxurious mansion, his eyes were drawn to its magnificence. The ancient Siheyuan was a testament to the wealth and power of the Song Family, with its towering pavilions and formidable doors. The two life-like statues of Chinese dragons at the entrance only added to the intimidating aura that surrounded the mansion.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel awed by the splendor of the ce and took a moment to savor the beauty of the lost history of Modern Earth. But his moment of peace was short-lived, as he was immediately led into the dark dungeon of the mansion.
The foul smell of blood, feces, and urine was overpowering, and Ximen Wei felt a surge of nausea. As his eyes adjusted to the darkness, he was horrified by the sight of torture devices, stained with dried blood, that littered the room. The putrid stench of the ce was almost suffocating, and Ximen Wei struggled to catch a breath without gagging.
The guards looked at Ximen Wei with pity and sympathy, realizing that he was unaware of the fate that awaited him once he entered that ce of terror. Ximen Wei was thrown into a jail cell and was left to endure the horrors of the Song Family mansion.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 18 18 - Extraordinary Meridian
?Ximen Wei let out a deep sigh as he epted his current predicament and decided to bide his time for a chance to escape. He situated himself on the rough and icy floor of the cell, and out of boredom, he began examining the various instruments and mechanisms surrounding him. As he leaned over to get a closer look at one of the devices, he noticed a crumpled piece of paper lodged behind it. He eagerly retrieved it and smoothed it out, revealing what was written on it. The sudden discovery sparked a glimmer of hope in his eyes, causing them to shine with an intense, radiant light like the depths of an endless ocean.
As Ximen Wei clutched the ancient scroll in his hand, he was suddenly transported to a realm beyond his wildest imagination. The dingy, cramped prison cell he was previously confined in was no longer there, reced by an ethereal paradise that pulsed with an otherworldly aura. The air was filled with a soft mist that swirled and danced in a dreamlike manner, adding an extrayer of enchantment to this mystical ce. The ground beneath Ximen Wei''s feet was alive with the seething energy of Qi, which radiated with a brilliant light, making this new world even more mysterious and captivating. Ximen Wei waspletely entranced by the beauty and majesty of this ethereal paradise, and he knew that he would never forget this moment for as long as he lived.
The Heavenly Blockade, a magnificent river that snaked its way through the starry sky, was a wonder of the universe. Its endless expanse dominated the heavens and the earth, its aura so powerful that it could quiver the very fabric of reality. At this moment, however, the serene and calm appearance of the Heavenly Blockade was shattered as it was wracked with tumultuous earthquakes.
Twelve Xianwu Turtles rose from the river''s depths, their massive shells towering over the horizon. Their eyes, shining with an otherworldly light, gazed off into the infinite distance as they unleashed nine piercing cries, each one echoing through the universe like a thunderp. The sounds were so powerful that they seemed to rattle the very stars themselves, sending shockwaves far and wide.
Despite their size, the Xianwu Turtles were a graceful and elegant sight as they emerged from the Heavenly Blockade. Their shells were a stunning shade of turquoise, and intricate patterns of gold and silver adorned their bodies, giving them an ethereal quality.
The Xianwu Turtles'' appearance was a portent of something significant, something that would change the course of the universe forever. Their cries resounded through the cosmos, reaching the ears of all who could hear and leaving them in awe of the mysterious creatures and their connection to the mighty Heavenly Blockade.
As the ninth cry rang out, Ximen Wei''s body convulsed as he felt a sudden jolt in his mind. A violet energy strand, emitting a radiant glow, shot out from the scroll and pierced into his arm at a lightning-fast speed. The energy quickly spread throughout his body, causing Ximen Wei''s face to turn ashen with fear.
His innards started to quiver violently, causing blood to gush out of his mouth, nose, ears, and even eyes. The mysterious energy wriggled its way through his flesh and bones, invading every cell of his being. Ximen Wei felt an immense pain, an agony beyond description, that made his body tremble and foam to seep out of his mouth.
His nervous system was overwhelmed, causing him to fall in and out of consciousness. Despite the brain''s defense mechanism, the pain was so intense that it jolted him awake again and again, making him suffer through this vicious cycle. The torment continued for the duration of an incense stick''s burn time, until finally, the illusory shape of an Extraordinary Meridian appeared.
The initial stages of Qi Cultivation are crucial for cultivators as it sets the foundation for their future prospects in the path of cultivation. The number of Extraordinary Meridians a cultivator opens during this stage is of utmost importance, as it determines their power and potential. Opening as many Extraordinary Meridians as possible is crucial, as it will result in less bottlenecks and obstacles on their journey.
Ximen Wei was in pain as he began the process of opening his first Extraordinary Meridian. The strand of energy that was flowing through his body finally found its way to his first Extraordinary Meridian, opening it with a relieved sigh. However, the energy was not done yet. It continued to flow, seeking another Extraordinary Meridian to open.
The world of cultivation is divided into two categories, the regr cultivators and the talented ones. Regr cultivators are capable of opening four to five Extraordinary Meridians, which are vital energy channels that run through the body and are responsible for one''s physical and spiritual strength. On the other hand, the talented cultivators possess an exceptional ability to open up to six or even seven Extraordinary Meridians, making them stand out from the rest.
However, there is one Extraordinary Meridian that sets apart the truly elite cultivators, the Eight Extraordinary Meridian. Unlike the others, opening this particr meridian is not solely dependent on one''s talent but also requires a substantial amount of fortune. The Eight Extraordinary Meridian is known to be the gateway to unlimited power and sess in the cultivation world, but gaining ess to it is not an easy feat.
To open the Eight Extraordinary Meridian, one must have ess to an immense amount of resources, including cultivation resources, and a solid foundation. Only then, would opening the Eight Extraordinary Meridian be a possibility. Without these crucialponents, the dream of opening the Eight Extraordinary Meridian remains just that, a dream. Only the Chosen of Prestigious Sects or the Dao Children of Great Families are able to achieve this feat.
The world of cultivation is aplex and challenging, one must be aware that opening this meridian is not a task to be taken lightly!
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 19 19 - Green Lotus City Lord
?Ximen Wei is undergoing a crucial moment in his journey as a cultivator. He is opening his second Extraordinary Meridian, a process that transforms his physical body to reach higher levels of being. Despite facing intense pain, the strand of energy keeps him alive, pushing him to reach the next level. This process of body remolding is critical for cultivators, as a weak physique cannot support the formation of Extraordinary Meridians. Thus, the opening of the second meridian marks a significant step forward for Ximen Wei, a transformation that brings him closer to transcending his mortal limitations.
Rumble!
As Ximen Wei sat cross-legged, he couldn''t help but feel an immense sense of power coursing through his veins. His body was filled with a newfound energy that he had never experienced before. With each passing moment, he felt himself growing stronger and more capable.
The six Extraordinary Meridians that had just appeared within him were like a surge of electricity that seemed to light up his entire being. He could feel the strands of energy pulsating within him, each one exuding its own unique power.
Ximen Wei''s eyes glinted with a newfound sharpness as he gazed around the cell in which he was being held captive. He felt like he could easily bend the metal bars in front of him with just a flick of his wrist, but he chose not to do so. Instead, he sat in deep contemtion, trying to make sense of the strange events that had just transpired.
He wondered where the mysterious Scroll hade from, who had sent it to him, and what their motives could possibly be. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of intrigue and suspicion, wondering who would be interested in his abilities and what they would want from him in return.
Despite the many questions that were running through his mind, Ximen Wei remained focused and calm. He knew that he was now officially a Level 1 Qi Trainee. His top priority right now, was to escape this horrendous ce before something terrible happens to him.
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Long Gen was in deep contemtion, his fingers caressing his neatly trimmed beard as he pondered over his decision to give Ximen Wei a hand. As he watched Ximen Wei open the scroll and activate the first Extraordinary Meridian, he breathed a sigh of relief. With every sessful activation of Ximen Wei''s Extraordinary Meridians, Long Gen''s expression changed from relief to approval, and finally to a faint smile.
However, when Ximen Wei''s Sixth Extraordinary Meridian was activated, Long Gen''s expression took a sharp turn, shifting from a smile to one of pure shock and disbelief. This was an unprecedented feat, unlike anything that had ever been seen before. It wasmon knowledge that only eight Extraordinary Meridians could be opened during the initial stages of Qi Cultivation, and this included the first three levels of Qi Trainees and the first Rank.
What Ximen Wei had aplished was truly astonishing, defying all odds and setting a new standard in the world of cultivation. Such a feat was only possible for the most talented and gifted Chosen and Dao Children of powerful entities. Long Gen was thoroughly impressed and amazed by Ximen Wei''s incredible abilities.
Ximen Wei''s ability to open six Extraordinary Meridians during his first level of Qi Trainee has set him apart from the rest. His potential is endless and his future prospects are shining bright. With such a remarkable feat aplished with just a Qi Condensation Manual that isn''t even at the Earth Rank, it''s hard to imagine what he could achieve if he were to cultivate with a Heaven Rank manual. The possibilities are exciting and the oue would be truly remarkable. An eight Extraordinary Meridian, which is considered a rare and exceptional feat, could very well be within his reach. And, who knows, even the legendary and mysterious Ninth Extraordinary Meridian may not be a far-fetched dream. The imagination runs wild with the thought of what Ximen Wei could achieve with such a powerful tool.
Long Gen''s eyes sparkled with a fierce determination as he crouched down, ready to pounce. The adrenaline was pumping through his veins as he focused all his attention on the small figure below him. The opportunity to capture this young individual was one that he could not afford to miss. He could sense the potential of the child, the potential to be a valuable asset to the sect. With a fierce growl, he lunged forward, his arms outstretched and ready to seize the young one.
Ximen Wei''s death at the hands of the Song family would be a catastrophic loss. But before Long Gen could get the boy, he was abruptly trapped. He quickly reacted, crushing a talisman to send a distress signal to his sect. With unwavering determination, he summoned all his power to break free from the lock.
In the distance, a tall figure emerged from one of the city''s mansions. The figure exuded the suffocating pressure of a Rank 2 Qi Expert. He stood at almost 2 meters tall, with a stout face and dark hair, d in a luxurious robe adorned with dragon drawings, exuding imperial majesty. The person was none other than the renowned Green Lotus City Lord, a powerful Rank 2 Wind Path Qi Expert.
The Green Lotus City Lord stood tall and imposing, exuding an aura of superiority and dominance. His voice boomed through the city, ringing with arrogance and confidence.
"I never thought the Illustrious Viper would be so bold as to show himself in public," he dered haughtily, as if challenging the infamous criminal to prove his worth.
The Green Lotus City Lord raised a hand, and with a flick of his wrist, a sea of intimidating energies emerged from the shadows, revealing the presence of countless Rank 1 Qi Experts. They had been hiding in the darkness, waiting for their chance to strike, their eyes fixed upon the Long Gen''s with deadly intent.
The Green Lotus City Lord smiled, a sly smirk that conveyed his satisfaction with the situation. "Now that you''re in our grasp, you won''t be escaping anymore," he said with a sense of finality, as if the fate of the Long Gen''s had already been sealed. The city was now surrounded by a web of potent Qi energy, ready to pounce upon their prey at the slightest movement.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 20 20 - Long Gens Battle
?The air crackled with intense energy as the group of powerful cultivators converged upon Long Gen. The sky was darkened by thick, ominous clouds, as if reflecting the tumultuous events unfolding below. The ground trembled beneath the collective force of the three Rank 1 Qi Experts and the seven or eight Level 3 Qi Trainees.
Long Gen, unppable and unperturbed, stepped back a few paces as he braced himself against the crushing wave of power unleashed by his opponents. His cultivation base, at Rank 2, radiated intense undtions of energy, pushing back against the relentless assault. Despite the intensity of the situation, Long Gen''s expression remained calm and collected, revealing nothing of his thoughts and intentions. The Green Lotus City Lord and the other three experts were unable to prate his poker face, leaving them uncertain of how to proceed.
The Green Lotus City Lord furrowed his brows, as he pondered over a troubling question. He had been tirelessly working to rid his city of the rats and criminals that had taken over, and he was determined to leave no stone unturned in his quest for a clean city. Despite his meticulous investigation of the Criminal District, he still had some nagging doubts that lingered in his mind. He couldn''t shake off the thought of how a Rank 2 Qi Expert could suddenly appear out of nowhere, and where the Criminal District was getting the resources to train so many Qi Trainees. He was determined to uncover the truth and make his city safe once and for all.
Upon conducting thorough investigations, he uncovered a shocking revtion. It seemed that there was a formidable entity supporting these recruiters, and he suspected that it could be a malevolent sect with connections to the demonic realm. He discovered that the recruiters were targeting vulnerable children, mainly those living in poverty-stricken areas, and were luring them to a remote region near the Tang Mountains.
The demonic sect is a powerful and mysterious organization that preys on the vulnerable and the marginalized. Its members are mostly children and young adults who have grown up in desperate circumstances, such as poverty, neglect, or abuse. These individuals have faced immense suffering and trauma, leaving them with a deep sense of insecurity and a need for a sense of belonging and purpose.
The demonic sect exploits these feelings by offering them a ce of refuge and a sense ofmunity. Through careful grooming and maniption, the leaders of the sect convince these children that they are the chosen ones, destined to bring about a new world order and achieve greatness. The sect members are brainwashed into believing that their loyalty and devotion to the sect is the only way to achieve this greatness, and that anyone who opposes them is their enemy.
As a result, these children be the perfect pawns for the demonic sect''s sinister agenda. They are fiercely loyal, obedient, and willing to do anything to protect their leaders and the sect''s ideals. The demonic sect uses these children to carry out its evil ns, manipting them intomitting heinous acts of violence and terror.
Despite the danger and evil that lies at the heart of the demonic sect, its members remain fiercely devoted to their cause. Their past experiences have left them with a deep sense of distrust towards the outside world, and they believe that the only way to survive is by sticking together and following the sect''s teachings. In this way, the demonic sect bes a self-sustaining entity, drawing in new recruits and perpetuating its reign of terror.
The Green Lotus City Lord, fueled by his determination to cleanse the Criminal District, moved forward with the purge operation despite the looming threat posed by the powerful entity behind it. He was aware of the presence of a Rank 2 Qi Expert in the city, but he was not intimidated. With the support of Western Wen, an imperial powerhouse boasting of even stronger cultivators and Qi Experts, he felt confident.
In an instant, the Green Lotus City Lord disappeared and reappeared next to Long Gen. With swift movements, he unsheathed his sword and swung it down towards the ck-robed figure. The immense power behind the sh was palpable, causing the surrounding space to crack and crumble apart. Despite the ferocity of the attack, Long Gen did not try to dodge or block. Instead, he simply raised his arm towards the sword, his fingertips glowing with a soft blue hue, as if he intended to grab the sword.
The sight of Long Gen''s calm and confident demeanor made the Green Lotus City Lord''s expression drop, but he refused to back down.
BOOM!
The city walls of the Green Lotus City shook violently, as if about to crumble, due to the incredible shockwave generated by the collision between two Rank 2 Qi Experts. The force was so immense that it seemed as though the walls, which had stood tall and strong for many years, were about to fall.
However, amidst the chaos, Long Gen managed to perform a stunning feat. With his finger tips, he caught the sword that was headed straight for him, a feat that would have been impossible for most. This was no ordinary feat, but a magical technique, one that was even more powerful and intimidating than the sword sh released by the Green Lotus City Lord.
The two figures stood facing each other, their eyes locked in a silent showdown. One was suspended mid-air, while the other stood firmly on top of the city walls, his feet sinking into the ground as he held his ground. The air was charged with tension as they gazed at each other, as though sizing each other up and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.
Three towering figures, each exuding immense power and strength, approached Long Gen with determination written all over their faces. The sky was lit up with dazzling disys of magical techniques and Qi as the trio unleashed their full potential, showering Long Gen with a barrage of fireballs and poisonous gas. However, Long Gen remained calm and collected, merely waving his hand to summon a shimmering shield that effortlessly deflected the iing attacks.
As the smoke cleared, a keen observer would have noticed a faint, glowing jade pendant hanging from Long Gen''s neck. This was no ordinary trinket, but a rare and powerful Qi Artifact that only a select few were privileged enough to possess. The mere presence of this artifact spoke volumes of Long Gen''s exceptional strength and skill, leaving no doubt that he was a force to be reckoned with.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 21 21 - Grand Escape
?Long Gen gazed intently into the City Lord''s eyes, his voice low and mysterious as he muttered the fateful words, "I wille back." A radiant light suddenly burst from the jade pendant around his neck, enveloping his body in a dazzling spectrum of colors. The prismatic beam of light grew stronger and more vibrant by the moment, lifting Long Gen into the air and shooting him towards the distant horizon, leaving behind only a lingering trail of shimmering light.
The Green Lotus City Lord''s face was filled with disbelief and shock as he stood frozen for a moment, his eyes wide and mouth slightly agape. His shock quickly turned into a raging inferno of anger as his face turned beet red, his eyes narrowed into slits, and his lips pressed tightly together in a thin line. The veins in his neck bulged, and his breath came out in short gasps, like a raging bull ready to charge.
With a cold and thunderous harrumph, the Green Lotus City Lord let out a powerful sound that seemed to shake the very foundations of the city. It was like a giant roar that echoed across the skies, spreading far and wide, striking fear into the hearts of all who heard it. The City Lord then spun around on his heels and stomped back to his magnificent mansion, his robes ring out behind him like a tempest.
In contrast, Ximen Wei, who was locked in a dreary and decrepit prison cell, was seated cross-legged on the floor, his mind deep in contemtion and focus. He was carefully studying the ancient Qi Condensation Manual, taking in each word and diagram with great detail, as he formted an escape n. Ximen Wei was a master strategist and was determined to get out of this predicament and continue his journey to greatness.
The conflict between the City Authorities and the Criminal District continued to escte, with the sounds of chaos and destruction ringing through the streets. Despite the majority of those on the front lines being mortals without any cultivation abilities, their passion for the fight was palpable, fueling the intensity of the battle.
As the two sides shed, weapons shed, and buildings crumbled, there was a growing sense of unease. Amongst the mortals, there were those with a hidden power, waiting to unleash their abilities when the time was right. These were the Qi Trainees who had taken refuge in the Criminal Distric.
The presence of these individuals added an extrayer ofplexity to the conflict, as the authorities had to be mindful of their powers while trying to maintain control. With so many powerful individuals hiding in the shadows, the war was far from over, and the city was still in a state of turmoil.
It would take a long time before peace was restored to the city, as the war between the City Authorities and the Criminal District continued to rage on.
Ximen Wei sat quietly in his cell, lost in deep thought. His mind was focused on one thing, and that was to escape from the jail that had trapped him. He knew that the path of Qi Cultivation was not an easy one, but he was determined to pursue it.
The manual that was held in his hand covered the first three levels of Qi Trainees and provided an introduction to the first Rank of the Qi Expert stage. Ximen Wei was well aware that the process of opening Extraordinary Meridians, feeling and controlling the Qi, and finally condensing it into a Core was not a simple task. It required immense luck, resources, and innate talents, and it could take years, even decades to master the art of controlling Qi.
The process of condensing Qi into a Core was the most dangerous and life-threatening part of the journey, and it required the guidance of an expert. A single misstep could lead to damnation and death, both in body and spirit. The dangers only increased as one delved deeper into the path of Qi Cultivation. That''s why only a handful of people managed to reach Rank 3, and there were probably not more than ten Rank 3 Qi Experts in the entirety of Western Wen.
With these thoughts in mind, Ximen Wei stood up, grabbed the scroll, and ced it in his pockets. With inhuman strength, he tore open the jail cells and set out on his escape n.
...
As Ximen Wei navigated the treacherous tunnels of the Song family''s underground dungeon, his nerves were stretched to the limit. The dimly lit passages seemed to stretch on forever, and at every turn, he felt as though he was being monitored by unseen eyes. The weight of the iron shard he had acquired provided a sense offort, as it could serve as a makeshift weapon if needed.
The echoing sound of footsteps and nging swords filled the air, causing Ximen Wei to hastily seek refuge behind a nearby crate. His heart pounded as he struggled to regte his breathing, knowing that the patrolling guards were on the hunt for any intruders. Tales of their brutal methods of punishment for those caught in the dungeon without authorization had spread far and wide.
As a team of four swordsmen approached Ximen Wei''s hiding ce, their weapons at the ready, he held his breath. The crate offered him a slim cover, but he could feel the guards'' suspicion growing with each step they took. He dared to nce through a tiny crack in the crate, observing the swordsmen with a mixture of fear and determination.
He nned at the first sign of an opening, he would unleash a swift and decisive blow like a bolt of lightning, leaving at least one of his opponents severely wounded or dead.
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Dear readers,
I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support and enthusiasm. I am thrilled to announce that we have reached a major milestone of 50 powerstones together! Your encouragement and feedback have been invaluable in keeping me motivated.
I am pleased to inform you that there will be another chaptering soon today.
Thank you again for your support and I look forward to our continued journey together.
Chapter 22 22 - Ximen Weis First Battle
?Ximen Wei took a deep breath, his mind and heart conflicted. He had always prided himself on being a peaceful person, one who abhorred violence and the taking of lives. But now, he found himself in a situation where he had to make an exception. The thought of taking another person''s life was a heavy burden, but it was a necessary evil if he wanted to return to his beloved Earth.
He clutched the iron shard tightly in his hand, his eyes focused intently on the group of four patrolmen who wereughing and chatting loudly. The thought of the atrocitiesmitted by the Song Family, and the fact that these guards had stood idly by, only fueled his resolve. It was a small measure offort to know that by taking them down, he would be delivering justice to all the innocent souls who had suffered and perished in this ce.
As he waited for the right moment, his mind raced with conflicting thoughts. He knew that this act would stay with him for a long time, haunting him and making him question his own morality. But, he also knew that these guards were the viins who had gued this world and it was his duty to rid it of their evil influence.
Finally, the moment he had been waiting for arrived. A loud explosion in the distance caught the attention of the guards, giving Ximen Wei a chance to strike unnoticed.
Ximen Wei was a force to be reckoned with as he charged at his opponent with ferocity in his eyes. With lightning-fast reflexes, he plunged the shard into the guard''s body with brutal precision, leaving the man paralyzed and writhing in pain as the blood gushed out from the wound. The scene was a gruesome one, with stters of red spreading out in all directions.
With a fierce determination, Ximen Wei pivoted towards the next guard, delivering a devastating kick to the man''s groin. The sickening crunch of bones echoed through the air, and the guard crumpled to the ground in agony, unable to make a sound as he lost consciousness from the pain.
The remaining two guards were taken aback by Ximen Wei''s brutal efficiency, but they were not going to stand idly by. Drawing their swords, they stepped forward, unsheathing their weapons with a sharp metallic ring. With no hesitation, theyunched into a fierce attack, their swords shing through the air as they attempted to bring down the young warrior in front of them. However, Ximen Wei''s cultivation base gave him an edge, allowing him to dodge and strike back with lightning-fast movements. The two guards were relentless, but they were no match for Ximen Wei''s deadly skills.
The group of seasoned warriors stood frozen in fear as they felt the intense waves of energy pulsating from the small frame of Ximen Wei. Despite his tender age of just 10 years old, the aura of power that radiated from him was unlike anything they had ever encountered. The air around him was thick with an ominous energy, as if death itself was lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce.
The group knew that they had to act fast, and put an end to this child''s reign of terror before it was toote. They could sense that, if they did not take him down now, they would be doomed to face an inevitable death. They felt their hearts beating fast, their palms getting sweaty, as they prepared to attack.
However, Ximen Wei was not one to be underestimated. Despite being a mere Level 1 Qi Trainee, his reflexes were lightning-fast. He swiftly dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding the first strike. Despite this, the warriors managed tond a hit, and a long gash appeared on Ximen Wei''s back. Blood flowed freely from the wound, but he didn''t let it slow him down.
The warriors were shocked at the level of strength Ximen Wei was able to wield, even though he was in the early stages of pre-Qi Ascension. It was clear that the amount of power he could exert was limited, but it was still far beyond what a normal 10-year-old should be able to do. He had already used up a significant amount of energy and stamina by breaking through the prison bars and taking down two guards in one swift surprise attack.
Ximen Wei groaned in pain, his body writhing in agony as an unfamiliar sensation overwhelmed him. He had never experienced anything like this in either his current life or his previous one. Despite the overwhelming pain, he refused to give in and desperately reached for one of the guard''s fallen swords, determined to defend himself.
His opponents, however, were one step ahead of him. They knew exactly what he was trying to do and with lightning quick reflexes, they swung their swords downwards with fearsome force. Ximen Wei''s heart raced as he frantically dodged the first sword, only to find himself facing another de that came crashing down towards him. He realized with a sinking feeling that he waspletely outmatched, his small and undernourished body unable to keep up with their powerful attacks.
With nobat skills to speak of, no weapon to defend himself, and no armor or gear to protect him, Ximen Wei was at a severe disadvantage. He was in the body of a weak and frail child, barely fed for years, and with no hope of defeating his opponents. But he refused to give up, his eyes zing with determination as he braced himself for the next attack.
Ximen Wei was barely able to dodge their attacks, but he was determined to survive. He focused his energy and let out an incantation, his voice trembling as he spoke. The air around him began to swirl, the Qi particles moving in a rhythmic pattern. Ximen Wei felt the power of the incantation as it gave him the strength he needed to defend himself. With a fierce determination, he summoned his inner strength and bellowed out,
"Qi Technique - Iron Fist!"
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 23 23 - A Monster Is Born
?The air around Ximen Wei shimmered and pulsed as he recited an ancient incantation, his voice filled with a rhythmic power that reached out and caressed the Qi particles that surrounded him. With each word he spoke, the particles danced and twirled in a precise order, gradually forming a mesmerizing formation that glimmered and shimmered with raw energy.
"Qi Technique - Iron Fist!" Ximen Wei dered, as he unleashed the full force of his power. The Qi particles coalesced into his fist, crackling with energy as he sent it hurtling toward the iing sword.
The two forces collided in a mighty st, the sound ringing out across the battlefield as metal met metal. Ximen Wei''s fist, imbued with the full power of the Qi Technique, held firm against the sword, pushing it back and revealing the full extent of his mastery over the elemental energies of the world.
In that moment, Ximen Wei was filled with a sense of wonder and awe. The Qi Techniques described in the Scroll, which he had studied with such diligence, seemed to hold the key tomanding the very essence of the world itself. He thought back to his previous life, to theplex programmingnguages that had enabled him to create and control the digital world. But here, in this new existence, he felt as though he were wielding a far greater power, anguage that spoke directly to the heart of the universe.
With a smile on his face, Ximen Wei felt the thrill of his newfound mastery, the thrill of the Qi Techniques and the power they held. He knew that he was just scratching the surface of what was possible.
The two forces shed with a shower of sparks, the guard reeling in surprise as Ximen Wei''s attack was effortlessly parried. But his shock quickly turned to anger as he realized the truth about Ximen Wei''s abilities.
"A Level 1 Qi Trainee!" he snarled, disbelief coloring his voice. "I can''t believe this kid is only a Level 1 Qi Trainee!"
Ximen Wei''s eyes narrowed as he continued to chant, his movements quick and precise as he sought to end this fight as quickly and quietly as possible. With each incantation, he called forth new Qi Techniques, each one more powerful than thest.
"Qi Technique - Strengthen!" he dered, as the elemental energies flowed into his body, empowering him and granting him newfound strength.
And then, with a flick of his wrist, he unleashed a new technique, one that would leave his opponent powerless.
"Qi Technique - Enfeeble!"
The guard felt his body sag as the technique took hold, sweat pouring down his face as he struggled to keep hold of his sword. But it was no use, the weapon slipped from his grasp, ttering to the ground as he turned to look at his friend, only to see that he too was in the same predicament.
Ximen Wei smiled, a sense of satisfaction filling him as he realized that his techniques were far more potent and effective than those of Old Mao. The old man may have been a skilled practitioner, but age and weakness had sapped his strength and limited his abilities. But Ximen Wei was young and strong, with a life force that burned bright.
With a final burst of power, Ximen Wei unleashed his most devastating technique.
"Qi Technique - Iron Fist!"
The air around him shuddered with the force of his attack, the two guards looking on in fear as Ximen Wei summoned all the power he could muster. And then, with a mighty roar, he sent his fist flying toward his enemies.
RUMBLLE!!!
The impact was devastating, sending shockwaves through the air as the first guard''s body was reduced to a pile of broken flesh and bone. And then, with a second blow, the second guard met the same fate, his head obliterated by the force of Ximen Wei''s punch.
In less than a minute, a ten-year-old child had decimated a group of four powerful guards, his actions a testament to the sheer terror that Qi Cultivators could inflict upon the world.
But with each technique came a cost, and Ximen Wei was soon on the brink of copse, his body and mind taxed by the effort of summoning so much power. He took a moment to catch his breath, leaning against the wall as he struggled to regain his strength.
Once he was ready, he retrieved the keys from the dead guard''s body, finishing off the final member of the group who had managed to escape his grasp. And then, with a cold determination in his heart, he approached thest guard, the one who was still paralyzed, ready to extract the information he sought.
The guard''s body trembled with fear as he felt the cold steel of the dagger pressing against his neck. Ximen Wei''s gaze was intense, his eyes like ck holes that threatened to suck the guard''s soul away.
"Y-Yes, anything you want to know," the guard stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. Ximen Wei''s lips curved up into a sneer.
"Everything," he repeated, his voice low and menacing. The guard couldn''t help but swallow nervously as he began to speak, pouring out everything he knew about the area, the whereabouts of the nearby towns and viges, and the number of guards stationed there. Ximen Wei listened intently, nodding every once in a while as the guard spoke. When the guard was finished speaking, Ximen Wei stood up, the dagger still clutched in his hand. He looked down at the guard, a cruel smile ying on his lips.
"Good," he said, his voice cold and emotionless.
The guard''s fear only intensified as he saw Ximen Wei hesitate. He feared for his life and couldn''t shake the image of Ximen Wei''s brutal and savage killing of hispanions.
Ximen Wei was deep in thought, ying with his dagger and weighing his options. He knew that his escape would eventually be noticed, but he wanted to dy the matter. A diabolical idea suddenly popped into his mind, but he quickly dismissed it as far too malicious and evil.
Panting, Ximen Wei realized that although the idea was brilliant, it was far too brutal. After weighing the pros and cons, Ximen Wei made a decision. He clenched his fists and proimed, ''For survival!''
"You have been very helpful." With that, Ximen Wei plunged the dagger into the guard''s heart, his cold expression never once changing. He wiped the blood off the de on the guard''s shirt and sheathed it before turning to leave the cell. This was the reality of being a Qi Cultivator, a monster who would stop at nothing to achieve his goals.
Chapter 24 24 - Contemplation And Dilemma
?As a team of four armored guards made their way down the dank and musty halls of the dungeon, one of them suddenly halted in his tracks. With a scowl, he pulled out a napkin and pressed it to his nose, as the noxious scent of something foul and putrid filled the air.
The other three guards, sensing theirrade''s rm, stopped in their tracks and looked at him with fear and reverence. They sniffed the air cautiously, but the already rank atmosphere of the dungeon made it difficult for them to detect any unusual odors.
"I think I smell something," the guard muttered, his eyes narrowed in suspicion.
One of the other guards spoke up, his voice hushed. "That old fart Song Peizhi should be busy with the mission assigned to him by the Family Patriarchs. He shouldn''t be down here ying with his new toys, right?"
The guard who had first noticed the smell was different from the others. He wore a crimson uniform, signifying his higher rank, and the aura of Qi that surrounded him was a clear indication that he was a Qi Cultivator, a Level 1 Qi Trainee.
Not just the Song Family, but all the noble and prestigious families of Green Lotus City were forces to be reckoned with. Their lineage stretched back thousands of years and they undoubtedly had ess to at least one Rank 1 Qi Expert.
"Stay on alert," warned Dongfang, the red-robed cultivator leading the group, his sharp senses detecting the smell of blood. "I smell blood. Follow me."
The guards unsheathed their swords without hesitation and formed a protective formation around Dongfang. They cautiously followed him as he led them deeper into the dungeon.
After a short journey, they arrived at a grisly scene - the fresh corpses of several guards. The stench of death was overwhelming, and bits of blood and brain matter were sttered across the area. The manner in which these guards had been killed was merciless and brutal, requiring superhuman strength. The holes in their heads and chests indicated that the culprit was none other than a Qi Cultivator.
As Dongfang studied the corpses, his eyes gleamed with a strange light. This was a serious matter, one that threatened the prestige and reputation of the noble families. How could they allow a Qi Cultivator to run rampant within their own territory?
One of the guards was dispatched to summon reinforcements and report the situation, while the other two followed Dongfang in their search for the culprit.
In response to the rm, the Song Family swiftly dispatched several men, including three Qi Cultivators, one of whom was the experienced Old Mao. Sadly, Song Peizhi was still upied in the criminal district, tending to the city''s more unsavory elements.
As the search for Long Gen intensified, multiple Rank 1 Qi Experts and Qi Traineesbed the city for any sign. The Green Lotus City Lord was on high alert, aware that he was facing a formidable opponent in the form of another Rank 2 Qi Expert, who was also in possession of a powerful Qi Artifact.
In a remote corner of the Tang Mountains, an elderly man with snow-white hair and beard sat in quiet meditation. Suddenly, his eyes snapped open, zing with an intimidating light as he gazed towards the Green Lotus City. With a flick of his wrist, several figures emerged from the shadows, eagerly awaiting his orders. The old man issued hismands before closing his eyes and sinking back into his meditative state.
The Green Lotus City Lord was aware that events were quickly spiraling out of his control. Although Long Gen had managed to evade capture and there were no casualties, a foreboding sense of impending doom weighed heavily on him.
The City Lord couldn''t help but regret his impulsive decision to attack Long Gen. Though his n was meticulously crafted, he had never anticipated that the mastermind behind the Criminal District would possess a Qi Artifact. Despite its potential power, what truly mattered was the mysterious force that supplied it to Long Gen.
Qi Artifacts are incredibly scarce and priceless treasures. Only the most powerful and influential entities can acquire them. The Green Lotus City Lord, who presided over a thriving merchant city, was no exception.
This uncertainty gued the City Lord. Despite extensive research and interrogations, he couldn''t uncover any nearby sects that may be connected to the Criminal District. The thought that a secret, powerful force was operating within his city left him feeling uneasy.
The Green Lotus City Lord was filled with regret for his hasty decision to attack Long Gen. Despite having carefully nned every detail, he had not anticipated that the mastermind behind the Criminal District would be armed with a Qi Artifact. The rarity and immense value of these artifacts cannot be overstated; they are virtually priceless and not just anyone can obtain one. In fact, not even the City Lord himself, who presides over a prosperous merchant city, possesses one.
This realization filled the City Lord with uncertainty. He was aware that the Criminal District was a breeding ground for a powerful sect, but extensive research and interrogations had led to nothing.
The Green Lotus City Lord was faced with two possibilities, either the Criminal District was a sect with Long Gen as its leader and in possession of a Qi Artifact, or it was just a recruitment ground for arger and more powerful sect with Long Gen as its representative. In either case, the Green Lotus City was in trouble. The presence of a Qi Artifact indicated that the sect was well-equipped and had better resources than the Green Lotus City. If Long Gen was the leader of the sect, then the Green Lotus City was in for a tough battle with possible huge losses. But, if Long Gen was merely a representative, then the situation was even more dire as it meant the Green Lotus City was facing arger and more powerful sect.
The Green Lotus City Lord faced a tough decision, he had to weigh the options of seeking help from the Western Wen''s forces or facing the consequences alone. He knew that the sect''s deployment of a Rank 2 Qi Expert with a Qi Artifact showed their immense power, and even if all the Noble Families and the Green Lotus City''s forces joined forces, they might not be able to survive the counterattack. The Green Lotus City Lord sat in deep thought, considering the potential oues of each action before making a choice.
Chapter 25 25 - Stage Is Set
?Dongfang arrived at Ximen Wei''s cell with two guards, the sight that greeted them was beyond disturbing. The putrid stench of decay filled the air, assaulting their nostrils with its foulness. The guard at the front staggered back, retching into a corner as the sight was too much for him to bear. The cell was awash with a macabre disy of human remains, rendered into a grotesque mash of bones, flesh, and organs. The walls and floor were sttered with congealing blood, the metallic tang heavy in the air. Even Dongfang, a seasoned warrior who had faced countless battles and bloodshed, struggled to maintain hisposure in the face of such unspeakable horrors. The sight was unforgettable, a haunting memory that would haunt the guard for the rest of his days.
The sight before them was no longer recognizable as a human being, but instead a revolting mass of flesh and bone. One of the guards, his hand unsteady, reached for a piece of parchment and marked Ximen Wei''s name off the list. The guard then retreated to a corner, violently expelling the contents of his stomach. The guards gazed down the hallway that led to the children''s quarters, where Song Peizhi kept his "toys." A sense of unease settled upon them, a foreboding feeling that something unspeakable had taken ce within those walls. They could not shake the feeling that their worst fears were about to be realized.
Ximen Wei, hisplexion deathly pale, was engaged in a fierce battle with a quartet of opponents. Despite the odds stacked against him, he ultimately triumphed through the use of his Qi Techniques. As he stood victorious, his gaze fell upon his crimson, blood-stained hands, and a deranged cackle escaped his lips. In one fateful day, Ximen Wei hadmitted a heinous and irredeemable act. Not only had he taken a life, but he had also snuffed out the futures of over ten individuals, including five innocent children who had been taken against their will and forced into this living nightmare.
Ximen Wei realized that in order to avoid arousing suspicion, he needed to stage his own death. To do this convincingly, he would have to ensure that his demise appeared natural. If only he perished within the confines of his cell, while the other captive children remained unscathed, then questions would inevitably be raised. After all, if a rogue Qi Cultivator was wreaking havoc in the Song Family''s dungeon, why would they single out Ximen Wei and spare the rest of the children? To ensure that his actions went unnoticed, Ximen Wei would have to craft a believable illusion of his death.
This was all the more critical given Ximen Wei''s association with the Criminal District and his affiliation with the Long Gang, a band of hoodlums personally groomed by the mastermind behind the Criminal District. The fourth guard, whose fate remained unknown, posed a potential threat to Ximen Wei''s ns. The guards were aware that the fourth guard was out there somewhere, dead or alive. If Ximen Wei were to simply "die" in his cell, then with the right investigative techniques, the true identity of the dismembered remains would eventuallye to light. The Qi world was a mystical and enigmatic ce, and the power of Qi was capable of wonders beyond theprehension of the humans of modern Earth. There were surely profound methods for gathering information and uncovering the truth.
Thus, Ximen Wei took it upon himself to turn the other children in the prison cells into a macabre mixture of meat and bones, ensuring that even if the true identity of the remains in his cell were revealed, there would still be lingering doubts and suspicions. The Song Family was one of the most prestigious and noble families, and they would not want to admit that a child had escaped their heavily guarded dungeon. It would be far more ptable to them to im that a formidable Qi expert, apanied by an inside aplice, had infiltrated their dungeon. Ximen Wei surmised that the ego and reputation of such noble families were of utmost importance, and that they would prefer to maintain their image, even if it meant concealing the truth.
As Ximen Wei hastened towards the exit, his mind raced with the knowledge that freedom was within his grasp. The passage was heavily guarded in light of the recent rm, but Ximen Wei was confident in his ability to slip away unnoticed. After all, he was intimately familiar with theyout of the dungeon, having undergone interrogation, and he now held the keys necessary to make his escape.
Despite the increased risk of being caught, Ximen Wei was determined to emerge unscathed from this crisis. The thought of finally enjoying the freedom he had always sought was enough to drive him forward. And, now that he had be a Qi Cultivator, his future prospects were unlimited. He had a chance, however small, to return to his former world and untangle the knots in his heart. With every step he took, Ximen Wei felt his heart swell with hope for a brighter future.
Dongfang was filled with rage and sorrow as he and his guards surveyed the horrific scene in each prison cell. Every one of them contained the mutted remains of children, reduced to grotesque piles of flesh and blood. The stench was overpowering and even the experienced guards struggled to maintain theirposure.
Dongfang swore to bring the perpetrator to avenge the innocent victims. With a fierce gesture, he summoned his Qi power and invoked "Qi Technique - Envision Aura".
The world before him took on an ethereal quality, and he could see the auras of all those who had passed by. Despite his anger, he was stunned to see an aura that stood out from the rest. It belonged to someone who was no taller than 150cm, but its strength was unmistakable, a clear indication of a Level 1 Qi Trainee.
Dongfang''s gaze intensified. "We face a Level 1 Qi Trainee who stands 140-150cm tall, possibly a Dwarf, but his aura suggests he''s human. Keep vignt." He instructed his guards, then coughed up blood, suffering the consequences of overusing a Qi Technique beyond his abilities. He wiped the blood and hastened towards the exit to inform the Song Family and the authorities of Green Lotus City about the tragedy and the rogue Qi Cultivator on the loose.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 26 26 - The Unveiling Of Qi Bedevilment
?As Ximen Wei finally emerged from thebyrinthine maze, his gaze was met with a stunning sight that left him breathless. The hall was vast and grand, with rows of statues lining both sides of the room. Each statue was a tribute to a former Patriarch of the Song Family, individuals who had performed remarkable deeds and served Western Wen with distinction. These figures were no ordinary mortals, for each one of them had transcended mortality and achieved Qi Ascension, earning a ce among the most feared and revered figures in thend.
The hall was filled with a palpable, oppressive aura that weighed heavily on Ximen Wei''s chest, making it difficult for him to breathe. Despite this, what truly took Ximen Wei by surprise was the sight of thirty soldiers standing guard at the entrance. The sight of these armed guards was unsettling enough, but what truly sent a shiver down Ximen Wei''s spine was the tyrannical presence of three Qi Cultivators, one of whom was a Level 2 Qi Trainee whose aura was nothing short of terrifying.
Ximen Wei had an ominous feeling that if he did not leave this ce soon, he would be trapped in this damp and dreary dungeon forever, never to see the light of day again. The thought of being trapped in such a ce was a daunting prospect, and Ximen Wei knew that he must find a way to escape before it was toote.
At that moment, Ximen Wei realized the full extent of the mistake he had made. Hisck of experience in this new world had led him to underestimate the dangers posed by Qi Cultivators, and the severity with which noble families treated any perceived threats. To them, the presence of a formidable expert invading their ancestral dungeon was an affront to their dignity, a humiliation that could only be washed away with blood.
If not for the ongoing chaos in the Criminal District, the Song Family would have deployed even more experts and soldiers, possibly even a Rank 1 Qi Expert. This realization left Ximen Wei feeling overwhelmed, as he was suddenly aware of just how much danger he was in
For the Song Family, prestige and face were everything, and they would not tolerate anyone crossing that red line. With a sense of urgency, Ximen Wei didn''t waste time in contemtion. His top priority was to escape, and his earlier n was to fake his death and draw the enemy''s attention away from him.
With haste, Ximen Wei retrieved the Elementary Qi Condensation Manual and swiftly memorized the mnemonic for stealth, knowing that he desperately needed a Qi Technique that would allow him to conceal himself from the enemy. With deft movements, he gestured the incantation, channeling all the power he could muster into the technique.
"Qi Technique - Cloaking!"
The Qi Particles of the Dark element converged around Ximen Wei''s body, enveloping him in a cloak of darkness. As Ximen Wei observed the flow of Qi Particles, he gained newfound insight into the inner workings of Qi Techniques, shedding light on many previously shrouded mysteries.
"So this technique harnesses the surrounding Qi Particles of the Dark element to cover my body and absorb all the Qi Particles of the Light element, effectively blending me into the shadows and suppressing my aura, sound, and scent," Ximen Wei realized with sudden rity.
With each passing moment, Ximen Wei''s nerves grew increasingly tense. The aura of crisis seemed to be closing in on him, suffocating him with its weight. His energy reserves were rapidly depleting, and it was bing increasingly difficult to maintain the Qi Technique that kept him hidden from the two remaining Qi Cultivators and the armed guards. The thought of his Qi Cloaking Technique dissipating and revealing him to the enemy was a harrowing one. He knew that the senses of Qi Cultivators were beyond what an ordinary person couldprehend. Should his technique fail, he would have no hope of escaping undetected. As the minutes ticked by, Ximen Wei held his breath, waiting for the opportune moment to make his move. He had to time his escape just right, or all would be lost. The fate of his survival hung in the bnce, and he could feel the pressure mounting with each passing second.
As Ximen Wei observed the situation, he saw Dongfang and the red-haired cultivator approach Old Mao, who was stationed at the entrance of the dungeon. They appeared to be deep in discussion, and Ximen Wei could tell from their expressions that the news they brought was not good. As the time psed, the red-haired cultivator decided to leave the dungeon, apanied by Dongfang, leaving behind only Old Mao and four guards, each adorned in gleaming silver armor that stood out among the others. Ximen Wei saw this as an opportunity to make his move, but he knew he had to act fast and with caution.
He tightly gripped the hilt of his dagger, focusing all of his energy and determination into his next move. With a fierce determination, he unleashed his Qi Technique - Strengthen, causing a barrage of life force-rich Qi Particles to converge around him. These particles eagerly entered his body through every possible opening, including his nostrils, mouth, ears, eyes, and pores, elevating his physical strength to unparalleled heights. Despite his youthful appearance, he was now capable of wielding a crushing power that would put even the strongest adults to shame.
With a sense of growing confidence, Ximen Wei moved on to his next technique, Qi Technique - Sharpen. This time, instead of being absorbed into his body, the swirling Qi Particles converged around his weapon, transforming it into a gleaming and deadly weapon. As he gazed upon the sharpened edge of his dagger, Ximen Wei felt a twinge of unease, as if the weapon was a sentient being that threatened his very existence. He carefully handled the dagger, acutely aware of its deadly potential.
Despite his earlier efforts, Ximen Wei felt a sense of unease settle in his chest. He knew that he needed to do more if he wanted to leave this ce. Without hesitation, he coughed up a mouthful of blood and performed aplex incantation gesture, signaling the activation of his final Qi Technique - Bedevilment.
This technique was unlike any other in the Elementary Qi Condensation Manual that Ximen Wei had obtained in his prison cell. Out of the six Qi Techniques outlined in the manual, only two were not focused onbat. The first, Cloaking, increased one''s stealth and masked their aura, while the second, Qi Bedevilment, was shrouded in mystery andcked any real description in the manual. All that remained were the incantation gestures and mnemonics needed to perform it.
Despite theck of information, Ximen Wei was insisted to use this technique to its fullest potential. He knew that it would take a tremendous amount of energy and Qi reserves, as well as his own blood, to fuel its effects.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 27 27 - On The Edge
?Ximen Wei''splexion nched as a sudden surge of adrenaline coursed through his veins, causing his blood to boil and then abruptly dissipate, leaving him with an intense headache that felt as though his skull was being cleaved in two. His thoughts were consumed by a maelstrom of anger and loathing, blotting out all other sensations and leaving him with a single, overpowering urge to unleash his wrath and wreak havoc upon his surroundings. Clutching his weapon with white-knuckled ferocity, Ximen Wei''s gaze fixed upon Old Mao with eyes zing with a feral, bloodthirsty light. In that moment, nothing else mattered - his only focus was to inflict death.
At the height of his power, Ximen Wei was an unstoppable force. Fueled by the power of four Qi Techniques, he lunged forward with deadly precision, plunging his empowered dagger deep into Old Mao''s back with a fluid and merciless strike. The de wreaked havoc upon Old Mao''s internal organs and extraordinary meridians, causing untold damage with each passing moment. But Ximen Wei was not yet finished. With a brutal twist of his wrist, he tore the dagger upward, rending a massive gash in Old Mao''s flesh and sending a spray of blood cascading through the air. With lightning speed, Ximen Wei delivered a vicious kick, sending Old Mao hurtling toward one of the statues and effectively silencing any screams that might have escaped his lips. In the same motion, Ximen Wei spun on his heel and cast his dagger with deadly uracy, embedding it in the neck of one of the guards and ending his life in an instant.
The remaining three guards were struck with awe and fear as they witnessed the brutal efficiency of Ximen Wei''s attack. Instinctively, they assumed defensive postures, steeling themselves for the inevitable confrontation with this formidable foe. With eyes zing with madness and a snarl of rage twisting his lips, Ximen Wei charged forward, his fist raised high as he cried out, "Qi Technique - IRON FIST!" As he unleashed the full power of his technique, a spray of dark crimson blood erupted from Ximen Wei''s eyes, nose, ears, and mouth, the result of overexerting himself with his Qi Techniques. The impact of his fist upon his opponent was devastating, producing a thunderous boom that echoed throughout.
Ximen Wei''s devastating fist caused the armor of the guard to buckle and copse, sending him flying through the air in a shower of blood. Though badly injured, the guard was not yet dead, and hispanions sprang into action. With lightning speed, one of the guards swung his sword,nding a devastating blow on Ximen Wei and opening a deep, oozing gash on his back. Despite the severity of his wound, Ximen Wei seemed unfazed, his small frame pivoting to face the guard who had wounded him. A cruel smile twisted his lips as he formed an incantation gesture with his hands and unleashed his Qi Techniques, "Enfeeble!" followed by "Iron Fist!" The guard''s expression turned to one of dread as he beheld the three fists descending upon him with unstoppable force. He knew that if those blowsnded, his death would be all but certain.
The first strike from Ximen Wei''s fist nearly shattered the silver armor of the guard, the second onepletely obliterated it, leaving the guard gravely injured. The final blow crushed the guard''s torso, reducing it to nothing more than limbs and a head, with an expression of terror and pain frozen on his face. Ximen Wei then turned his gaze to the final guard, his expression a picture of sheer madness, as if a devil himself was looking upon him. A twisted smile crossed Ximen Wei''s lips as he reached for the sword lying on the ground, moving menacingly towards thest guard. However, before he could take another step, Ximen Wei coughed up three mouthfuls of blood, the effects of the Qi Techniques he had cast upon himself fading away. As the effects of Strengthen dissipated, a sense of weakness washed over Ximen Wei, leaving his legs unsteady and his grip on the sword in his hand slipping.
As the Bedevilment dissipated from Ximen Wei, he was ovee by a surge of intense pain, his mind was ravaged and felt as though it was on the brink of explosion. He tottered unsteadily, his weakened legs barely able to support his weight. The remaining guard was caught in a state of indecision, torn between the opportunity to strike down the weakened devil before him and the fear that he instilled. He had just witnessed the brutal and swift annihtion of four elite members of the Song Family, including a respected Qi Cultivator.
As Ximen Wei stumbled and weakened, the guards stepped in with brutal precision, sensing their moment to strike. Ximen Wei''s vision narrowed to only the glinting sword that was now being brought down upon him, and he could only raise his arms in a desperate attempt to protect himself.
But he soon realized that these guards were not the average guards he had encountered in the dungeons. They were elite warriors, each one honed to perfection in both their swordsmanship and equipment. Their viciousness was unmatched and their prowess was evident in their fluid movements. These silver armored guards were a force to be reckoned with, far surpassing the regr guards in every aspect.
Despite his own injuries, the other guard who had been struck down got back up, coughing blood as he red at Ximen Wei with disdain. Even Old Mao, who was barely clinging to life, managed to stand, though he stumbled and fell multiple times from the gravity of his wounds. The stab from the dagger had inflicted a deep wound, one that threatened to take his life.
The consequences of his actions were about to catch up to him.
-----
Note:
Thank you for your support. It means a lot to me. I am speechless and did not expect this level of support. If I have made any mistakes, please let me know so that I can correct them since I release them quite fast.
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Chapter 28 28 - Immortal Devil Sect
?Old Mao, sustained by the abundant vitality of the Qi Cultivators, clung to life and gazed upon Ximen Wei raising his arms in a desperate effort to defend himself. The sight before him was so shocking that Mao rubbed his eyes multiple times to confirm its authenticity. Ximen Wei, with gritted teeth, unleashed a relentless barrage of Qi Techniques, sacrificing his own life essence to buy a sliver of hope for escape. Each technique he called forth came at a heavy cost, but Ximen Wei was undeterred.
"Qi Technique - Strengthen!" A crimson stream of blood escaped from Ximen Wei''s mouth as he bellowed the incantation.
"Qi Technique - STRENGTHEN!!" More blood oozed from his nose, eyes, and ears as the attack intensified.
"Qi Technique - STRENGTHEEEENNNNN!!!" Ximen Wei was now a fearsome sight, a blood-soaked divinity with eyes alight with determination and fury.
However, the guard was unfazed and only increased the force of his attack, even as Ximen Wei''s life was being drained away.
The sword strike descended upon Ximen Wei''s arms with the force to sever them from his body, but thanks to the Strength Qi Particles flowing within him, the sword was arrested mid-strike, stopped just short of his bones. With a sigh of relief, Ximen Wei quickly retreated, making his way towards the entrance. He couldn''t linger any longer, themotion of the fight was sure to have drawn attention. He was aware that once the effects of his Qi Techniques faded, he would be left with a debilitating weakness that would likely result in him copsing unconscious. He needed to find a safe ce to rest, or his journey woulde to a premature end. Old Mao, weakened and on his knees, could do nothing to help. He summoned thest of his Qi and Energy, infusing his vocal cords with his life force, in an attempt to do something.
Old Mao summoned what remained of his strength and bellowed with a voice that shook the entire ce.
"WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU''RE GOING??"
His voice was like thunder, a formidable attack that sent shockwaves towards Ximen Wei, nearly causing him to stumble and fall. The voice attack was so powerful that it elicited more blood from Ximen Wei''s pores, but still, he pressed on, never once looking back until he finally emerged from the hall.
The remaining guard was unable to give chase, their mortal speed no match for the enhanced speed of a cultivator, particrly one who had just empowered themselves.
Ximen Wei emerged outside the gate, his eyesnding on an imposing wrought iron gate. Beyondy a district of the Green Lotus City, controlled by the Song Family. Despite the danger, Ximen Wei didn''t hesitate. He charged towards the iron gate and with a herculean effort, tore it open with his bare hands.
With a newfound burst of strength, Ximen Wei bent the bars of the wrought iron gate open, just as he had done to the bars of his prison cell. He fled with abandon, disregarding the guards that gave chase. He ran through the city''s winding streets, dodging pursuit, until he finally stumbled upon a secluded corner in one of the city''s remote districts. Panting, he sought refuge there, pulling out a stash of potions he had acquired from the dungeon to aid in his recovery. The elixirs worked to restore his vitality, slowing the rate at which the effects of his empowerment dissipated. As hey there, hidden from view, Ximen Wei waited for his strength to return, his mind racing with thoughts of what the future may hold.
After two minutes, the Ximen Wei''s Qi Techniques finally dissipated, leaving him feeling exhausted and powerless. Ovee by weakness, he crumpled to the ground and lost consciousness.
Meanwhile, Long Gen was in a meeting with the Overlords of the Criminal District. These were the powerful figures who controlled the underground world, and each one was a formidable Rank 1 Qi Expert, capable of wielding immense strength. However, despite their impressive abilities, they looked upon Long Gen with reverence and respect.
Each word he spoke was listened to intently, and his every gesture was watched with great care. For they were in the presence of a Rank 2 Qi Expert, a being who was far above their own abilities.
In the world of Qi Trainees, the differences between levels could be bridged with a strong foundation. But in the realm of Qi Expertise, the gaps between ranks were like the distance between heaven and earth. The higher one''s rank, the more difficult it became to achieve a breakthrough. And Long Gen was at the pinnacle of this stage, a being of immense power and prestige.
Long Gen cast his gaze upon the ancient hourss resting on the table, its sand slowly trickling down, symbolizing the passing of time. He then turned his attention to the Criminal Overlords, his eyes narrowing in determination.
"The reinforcements will arrive soon," he announced, his voice ringing with authority. "The Immortal Devil Sect will not stand idly by as Western Wen seeks to interfere in our ns. We will im Green Lotus City as our own, wiping out the Noble Families, and any who dare to stand in our way. If Western Wen dares to challenge us, they will face the full wrath of the Immortal Devil Sect."
In the distance, figures shrouded in ck robes could be seen sprinting through the forest, their movements almost too quick to follow with the naked eye. As they raced forward, they left behind a trail of after-images that spun and blurred, causing one''s head to spin dizzily. The figures themselves exuded auras of incredible power, their tyrannical energy sending shivers down the spines of those who felt it.
It was clear that something massive was about to ur, a grand confrontation that would shake the very foundations of thend. The aura of the ck-cloaked figures was beyond extraordinary, striking fear into the hearts of all who felt its might. Something wasing, something that would change everything forever.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 29 29 - The Calm Before The Storm
?The Divine Star Continent sprawls endlessly, with a seemingly endless array of powerful entities vying for dominance. These entities, from the great ns and tribes to the mighty empires such as the Su Dynasty and Western Wen, each hold sway over a portion of thend. But none are as feared and revered as the sects that call the Divine Star Continent home.
Of these sects, one stands out as a beacon of terror and malevolence: the Immortal Devil Sect. This demonic path sect specializes in molding children and youths into the most savage of fiends, devils who revel in the destruction and massacre of the innocent. Their Daoist teachings and core doctrines are built around the very idea of mass ughter, an abhorrent concept that would normally be uneptable in the world of cultivation.
Yet despite the disapproval of the wider cultivationmunity, the Immortal Devil Sect is permitted to exist. This is due to their unparalleled strength and immense reserves, making them a force to be reckoned with even by the mightiest of empires like Western Wen. The sect is said to harbor entities with strength equivalent to Rank 4 Qi Experts, a level of power thatmands awe and fear from all who behold it. The Divine Star Continent is and of many dangers, but the Immortal Devil Sect stands at the forefront, a dark and ominous presence that looms over all.
Rank 1 and Rank 2 cultivators aremonce, their abilities and strength respectable, but unremarkable. However, Rank 3 cultivators are a rare breed, their power much sought after and respected.
But above all others stand the Rank 4 Qi Experts and beyond, these are the paramount paragons of the cultivation world, beings whose abilities are beyondprehension. They are figures of awe and terror, revered as near-deities, their strength unmatched and unparalleled.
To have such powerful cultivators within one''s sect is a formidable deterrent, and it is not umon for other entities to hesitate before challenging them. These beings are the very embodiment of power, their existence alone enough tomand respect and fear from all who dare to cross their path.
...
Ximen Wei was at a loss,pletely unaware of the events unfolding around him. He had sought refuge in a safe location, but fate had other ns for him. As he slipped into unconsciousness, a massive search was underway, with multiple experts from the Song Family scouring the area for the intruder. Despite their extensive efforts, the search proved fruitless, and eventually, the experts were forced to abandon their pursuit.
Fortunately for Ximen Wei, Old Mao, the guard who had discovered him, was unable to divulge his identity before sumbing to his injuries. Old Mao''s wounds were grave, the result of his earlier exertion using the vocal attack, and his life force was quickly waning. Unlike Old Mao, the remaining guard was unable to see through Ximen Wei''s Qi Cloaking Technique.
At present, Ximen Wei remained undetected, his risky gambit having paid off. Despite the widespread search, no one suspected the young child to be the vicious murderer who had snuck into the grand mansion of the Song Family and imed the lives of over ten elites. The posters distributed in the search depicted another suspect, and even though both individuals had the same height, no one would have suspected that a ten-year-old could be capable of such a heinous crime.
The meeting between the Overlords and Long Gen soon came to a close, with each participant going their separate ways, preparing for the inevitable sh that was on the horizon. Song Peizhi, having finished his duties in the Criminal District, returned home, but when he heard of the destruction wrought upon his cherished possessions, he was consumed with anger. He nearly threw all the guards responsible for guarding the dungeon into jail, if not for the intervention of the Song Family''s Patriarch, his father. The Song Family would have been left nearly defenseless without the guards, and it was only through the Patriarch''s influence that they were spared.
Nestled in the heart of Green Lotus City stood a grand and luxurious mansion, the abode of the city''s sole Rank 2 Qi Expert and City Lord. At present, the City Lord was in his office, joined by his two trusted generals, both exuding the formidable aura of Rank 1 Qi. The three sat together, deep in thought, devising strategies to defend their city against the impending attack of multiple Qi Cultivators.
The Green Lotus City held a strategic position, located on the border between Western Wen and the Su Dynasty. It was fortified with weapons and formations, ready to defend against any possible attacks from the Su Dynasty. The soldiers and Qi Cultivators stationed there were the best of the best of Western Wen''s forces, handpicked for their exceptional abilities. By cing a Rank 2 Qi Expert in a city filled with mortals, Western Wen demonstrated the significance they ced on the city, and it was with this in mind that the City Lord and his generals quickly set about creating a robust n to defend and evenunch a counterattack against the enemy.
As the sun set and the moon rose, the Green Lotus City was enveloped in an eerie silence. The previously bustling streets nowy empty, with all windows and doors securely shut. The market, which had once been a bustling hub for trade in Western Wen, was now devoid of life. Stallkeepers had closed their businesses and retreated to the safety of their homes. Even the sounds of the criminal district had died down, leaving only a quiet stillness that hung heavily in the air.
The Green Lotus City Lord and his two generals had dispersed, each carrying out their duties as they prepared for the impending conflict. Their orders echoed throughout the city, fueling the already palpable tension as citizens braced themselves for the worst. Despite their preparedness, the atmosphere was still tense, with everyone on edge and no one daring to make a noise.
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Chapter 30 30 - Unveiling A Hidden Gem
?The ominous feeling in the city only grew stronger as the moments passed, and everyone felt a sense of unease deep within their hearts. It was as if a storm was brewing, and something big was about to happen that would change the Green Lotus City forever. Reinforcements arrived from Western Wen, positioning themselves at every garrison throughout the city. Qi Formations lit up and a dome of light encased the entire city, preventing anyone from entering or leaving, no matter the circumstances. Soldiers could be seen everywhere on the streets as surveince became increasingly strict. On top of that, powerful Divine Senses swept over the city from time to time, making sure that nothing unusual was taking ce.
...
Ximen Wei''s eyes fluttered open as he slowly regained consciousness. The first sensation he felt was a pulsing headache, but it was a manageable difort. He took a moment to orient himself and his surroundings, and a sinking feeling settled in his chest as he realized he was in an unfamiliar room. The space was sterile, devoid of any personal touches or decorations. The only piece of furniture in the room was the sleeping mattress he was lying on.
As Ximen Wei took in his surroundings, a wave of nostalgia washed over him. The in and modest setting reminded him of his childhood room in the small vige where he grew up. He thought back to the couple who took care of him and raised him, Qin Liqiu and Ximen Fei. Despite the rough exterior of the room, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a bittersweet smile tug at the corners of his lips as he was transported back in time to simpler, happier moments.
Despite his emotional detachment in the past, a part of Ximen Wei felt a twinge of longing as he thought of his adoptive parents, Qin Liqiu and Ximen Fei. Although they were not his biological parents in his eyes, they had taken care of him and showed him genuine love and affection. He also remembered Uncle Fang, who would regale him with exciting tales of Qi Experts who could hold up the sky and split mountains with a mere flick of their wrist. The memories brought a hint of warmth to Ximen Wei''s heart, despite his tendency to remain aloof.
Ximen Wei''s eyes gleamed with a bright light as he thought back to his true family on Earth. The memory of her brought a special warmth to his heart, and he was reminded of the promise they had made to each other.
Suddenly, his vision turned a shade of red as he was transported back to the day of his arrival in this world. He could vividly recall the image of Ximen Fei, his father, holding him as a baby. He had looked at him with a fatherly love in his eyes, but Ximen Wei had gazed back with fear and terror in his own.
His thoughts then shifted back two years prior, to the day when Western Wen soldiers invaded his vige. The memories were still raw and vivid, and Ximen Wei relived the horrors of that day. He remembered the ughter and death that surrounded him, and the unimaginable vitions inflicted upon his mother. He remembered the moment when Ximen Fei, the man he had considered his father, was beheaded right before his eyes. The memories of that day brought a mix of pain and anger to the surface, and Ximen Wei''s heart ached with a deep sadness.
Finally, Ximen Wei shook his head, trying to dispel his thoughts and emotions. He got up from the bed and took a look around the room, but found nothing of interest. He made his way towards the wooden door and pushed it open. Inside, he found his gang leader, the Illustrious Viper, Long Gen, seated on a chair and engrossed in a thick book.
Upon noticing Ximen Wei, Long Gen put down his book and stood up from his chair. He approached Ximen Wei and took his hand, cing his fingers on the younger man''s wrist. He closed his eyes for a moment, then nodded his head in satisfaction.
"Good," he said in a pleased tone, "Your injuries are almost healed. Kid, what was your name again?"
Ximen Wei gazed up at Long Gen, his mind whirling with confusion and uncertainty. He had be a Level 1 Qi Trainee and had learned to sense the undtions of Qiing off of other cultivators, allowing him to estimate their cultivation levels. This was how he had figured out that the red-haired young man in the Song Family''s dungeon was a Level 2 Qi Trainee. However, when he looked at Long Gen, he was shocked to find that he couldn''t sense anything at all. It was as if the man in front of him was a mortal, devoid of any Qi cultivation.
This realization caused Ximen Wei''s heart to nearly drop as a thought struck him. He couldn''t help but wonder what the implications of this might be.
''A Rank 1 Qi Expert, at the very least!'' Ximen Wei thought to himself.
Despite his racing thoughts, Ximen Wei was aware that Long Gen had asked him a question and quickly refocused his attention. "It''s Ximen Wei, sir," he replied.
Long Gen nodded in approval, then posed another question. "Wei''er, is it? Can you tell me, how many Extraordinary Meridians have you opened so far?"
"S-six, sir," Ximen Wei answered.
Although Long Gen had expected this answer, he still couldn''t help the burst of joy that filled his heart. To have an innate talent like this was an invaluable treasure for any sect, and he knew he had struck it big with Ximen Wei. For someone to have opened six Extraordinary Meridians just in the first level of Qi Training was a feat only aplished by Dao Children of super sects and powerful families. And to top it all off, Ximen Wei was only 10 years old, making him all the more valuable.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 31 31 - Joining The Immortal Devil Sect
?With a flick of his wrist, Long Gen presented Ximen Wei with a bound manual. The cover was made of rough, earth-toned leather and was embossed with the words "Earth Grade Qi Condensation Manual." Ximen Wei took the manual in his hands, feeling its weight and the texture of the leather.
Long Gen looked at Ximen Wei with a proud smile. "This manual is an Earth Grade one, filled with Qi Techniques and instructions to reach the third level of Qi Trainees," he exined. "But, unlike the scroll you received before, this manual will not grant instant enlightenment. You must put in the hard work and dedication to truly master its teachings and advance as a Qi Cultivator."
Ximen Wei flipped through the pages of the manual, his eyes scanning the neatly written text and illustrations.
Ximen Wei''s pulse quickened as his gaze was fixed upon the magnificent Earth Grade Qi Condensation Manual. He could sense the aura of mystery and power emanating from it, and he was convinced that its contents were vastly more substantialpared to the scroll he had previously obtained. However, he was wary and wondered what the cost of obtaining this treasure would be. He cautiously shifted his gaze towards Long Gen, whose mere presence exerted a formidable mental pressure upon him, making it difficult for Ximen Wei to draw a full breath.
"Sir...I''m well aware of my humble circumstances," Ximen Wei managed to force out. "What must I pay to possess this Qi Condensation Manual?"
Long Gen''s eyes flickered, studying Ximen Wei intently. A sly smile graced his lips as he chuckled, finding the young man to be far more astute than he had initially thought.
"Fear not, Wei''er," Long Gen said, his voice warm and friendly. "I''m not asking for any wealth or resources in exchange for the Qi Condensation Manual. In fact, I''m not seeking any payment at all. All I require is for you to join my esteemed sect and be one of my disciples."
Ximen Wei was taken aback by Long Gen''s offer, his mind racing as he remembered the information he had read about sects in the World Encyclopedia that Uncle Fang had gifted him. His heart beat faster as he realized that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Sects, as Ximen Wei understood them, were simr to schools and universities, providing a learning environment where individuals could study the Dao and cultivate their Qi, bing powerful experts in the process. These were ces where the Daoist teachings and core doctrines were passed down to the younger generations. If Ximen Wei were to join such an establishment, his journey to enlightenment would be smoother and he would save a considerable amount of time, allowing him to return home sooner.
Despite feeling a surge of excitement within, Ximen Wei''s expression remained impassive. He asked in a tone that betrayed none of the nervousness he felt deep down.
"May I inquire, Sir, as to the nature of the sect I am joining? And what might be the name of this esteemed organization?"
Ximen Wei eagerly awaited Long Gen''s response, his mind full of hopes and expectations. He had read about legendary sects in the World Encyclopedia, and he could not help but hope that the sect he was joining was one of those mentioned in the book.
Long Gen smiled as he leaned back in his chair, opening a book in his hand. He crossed his legs, and spoke in a sagely tone, radiating an aura of wisdom and authority.
"What kind of sect are you joining? Allow me to borate. Our sect is one of the top ten in the Divine Star Continent, renowned for ourpassion and generosity. We are known for ourmitment to justice and peace, and for our unwavering principles of fairness and equality. Our sect is highly respected by other forces, who view us as an impartial and otherworldly entity, residing above the secr world, bestowing protection and guidance upon all living beings..."
As Long Gen extolled the virtues of his sect, Ximen Wei grew increasingly excited. The mere fact that the sect he was joining was one of the top ten in the Divine Star Continent was an impressive feat in itself, and the way Long Gen described it piqued Ximen Wei''s curiosity. He couldn''t help but consider the possibility that this sect might be one of the legendary sects mentioned in the World Encyclopedia.
"The Harmonious Gate Sect, the Sword Heaven-Severing Sect, or perhaps the mythical and legendary Nine Mountains Immortal Sect?" Ximen Wei''s eyes lit up as he thought about all these renowned sects, steeped in legends and lore. However, his expression quickly turned sour as he realized that Long Gen might be embellishing the truth. Ximen Wei didn''t even bother to hide his skepticism, knowing that Long Gen might be making exaggerated ims.
Why would a prestigious and morous sect like this one choose to recruit in the criminal district of Green Lotus City, known for itswlessness and brutality? And how could someone like Long Gen, a notorious gang leader in the criminal district, be a member of such a righteous and just sect, renowned throughout the Divine Star Continent? These were the questions that Ximen Wei couldn''t help but ask himself.
Ximen Wei''s eyes narrowed as he continued listening to Long Gen bbering about his legendary sect and it''s aplishments that supposedly "changed the entire structure of the Divine Star Continent"..
"So remember little Wei''er, as a sect member of one of the top ten sects in the entirety of Divine Star Continent, as a disciple one of the most illustrious and righteous sects in the ENTIRETY of Divine Star Continent, you must not engage in killings in whatsoever, always resolve conflicts in a peaceful and unharmful manner! For example, if you see a thief, catch him, return back what he stolen, and give him some silver taels because thief''s are desperate people who resorted to theft in order to live! Remember to always act like Buddha..."
After what seemed like an eternity, Ximen Wei finally asked Long Gen for the name of the sect.
"Sir... you haven''t told me the name of the sect yet..."
Long Gen paused and then snapped his fingers as he eximed with enthusiasm, "Oh right! I almost forgot to mention the awesome name of our illustrious sect! Our sect is called the Immortal..."
Ximen Wei was all ears, he had read about many sects in the World Encyclopedia, and he had memorized most of their names, characteristics, and brief descriptions.
"The Immortal Devil..."
As soon as Ximen Wei heard the word "Devil," his expression dropped as he realized the mistake he had made by joining the sect.
"The Immortal Devil Sect! Remember that, kid! That''s the name of our sect, and don''t forget our principles and beliefs!"
Chapter 32 32 - I Am Ximen Wei
?Ximen Wei felt a shiver run down his spine as Long Gen''s words echoed in his mind. Despite the elder''s tendency to exaggerate and embellish, there was a kernel of truth in his words. The Immortal Devil Sect was indeed one of the top ten sects in the Divine Star Continent, and their actions had indeed had a profound impact on the structure of the world.
The World Encyclopedia had recorded a tale that was almost a legend, about a powerful one-horned Devil who had appeared out of nowhere in the Divine Star Continent. This Devil was once human, but through a special cultivation method, he had be a demi-human, a Devil!
This Devil was a true paragon among paragons, his power was unmatched and no amount ofbined efforts from countless heroes could stop him from causing destruction in the Divine Star Continent. His actions were brutal and relentless, as he indiscriminately ughtered innocent people, leaving cities in ruins and sects decimated.
The world was plunged into chaos and despair, until a group of immortals descended from the heavens to put an end to the Devil''s reign. In a fierce battle, they eventually managed to seal the Devil in a mountain, bringing peace back to the world and restoring order to the Divine Star Continent. The tale of this Devil was a warning, a reminder of the dangers that could lurk in the shadows, waiting to wreak havoc upon the world.
The passage of time had weakened the seal, allowing the Devil to move once again. However, his powers were still restricted and he was unable to undo the seal. With no other options avable to him, the Devil made the decision to establish his own sect on the mountain where he was sealed.
The years passed, and the Immortal Devil Sect gradually grew in power and prestige. With each passing day, the sect gained a reputation for instilling fear in others. The Devil, who had once been the source of destruction and chaos, was now the leader of a powerful organization thatmanded respect and reverence.
Despite his desire to join the powerful Immortal Devil Sect, Ximen Wei could not shake the feeling of skepticism that lingered within him. The sect''s peculiar cultivation practices and its notorious reputation were of particr concern to him. He couldn''t help but wonder if he was making the right decision, joining an organization that was so vastly different from what he was used to.
Although, his reservations, Ximen Wei was deeply driven by his own goals and aspirations. At the core of his being, he still held onto his moral principles and values, and the thought of engaging in mindless ughter was repugnant to him.
However, his unwavering determination to grow stronger and return to his home was more powerful than his moral qualms. He was willing to cast aside all the fetters of his upbringing, including his moral principles, in order to achieve his ultimate goal. This inner conflict was something that weighed heavily on Ximen Wei''s heart, but he was determined to push forward and ovee any obstacle that stood in his way.
As Ximen Wei considered his options, he realized that the people in this world were not his own, and that he was merely a stranger passing through. This thought gave him a newfound sense of detachment, and he felt a strange sense of detachment from the people around him.
With this newfound determination, Ximen Wei set his heart on his goal, no matter the cost. He told himself that even if he had tomit acts of violence and destruction, it was necessary in order to achieve his ultimate aim. He steeled his heart and vowed to himself that he would stop at nothing until he was able to return to his home and be reunited with the people he loved.
Ximen Wei''s mind was set, and he was determined to do whatever it takes to achieve his goal. The thought of going back home and seeing his beloved ones filled him with a sense of purpose and drive that he had never felt before.
As Ximen Wei raised his head and locked eyes with Long Gen, the elder was taken aback by the intense gaze he encountered. There was a profound emptiness in Ximen Wei''s eyes, devoid of any trace of emotion. But, deep within, there burned a fiery passion and an unshakable determination that was both unsettling and awe-inspiring.
Long Gen felt as though he was staring into the depths of Ximen Wei''s soul and seeing the single-minded focus that consumed him. It was a gaze thatmanded respect andmanded fear, one that spoke of a determination so great that all other emotions paled inparison.
Ximen Wei''s eyes seemed to pierce through Long Gen''s own, leaving the elder feeling deeply shaken by what he saw. It was clear that Ximen Wei was not to be underestimated, and Long Gen realized that this disciple was destined for greatness.
...
"I am Ximen Wei, a force to be reckoned with, a conqueror of worlds. My journey into the unknown is not a mere walk, it''s a deration of war against mediocrity. With each step, I stride towards ultimate power, a power that will shake the foundations of the Divine Star Continent.
I am the harbinger of change, the master of my own destiny. My fire burns bright within, a me that will illuminate the path to greatness. I am relentless in my pursuit, unwavering in my determination. No obstacle will stand in my way, no challenge too great to ovee.
I am Ximen Wei, a name that will ring through the ages, a legacy that will endure forever. Today, I join the Immortal Devil Sect, and with that, I embrace my fate as a conqueror, a ruler of the Divine Star Continent."
Ximen Wei told himself as he knew there is no turning back trying to change his mindset.
"I will not be swayed by doubt or fear. The path I have chosen is one of power and strength, and I will not falter. I am steadfast in my resolve, unwavering in my purpose. And, I will not rest until I reach the pinnacle of sess.
I have cast aside my old life."
Chapter 33 33 - The Devilish Prodigy
?Nestled within the lush and verdant forest, there stood a dpidated temple, its walls and roof showing signs of decay and neglect. The stillness of the area was suddenly disrupted as the temple trembled, causing the surrounding wildlife to stir and scurry.
From within the temple, a forlorn sigh echoed, a sound that was both mncholic and sorrowful. The sigh seemed toe from the very depths of the temple, and for a moment, the surrounding area was nketed in silence, as if the very forest itself was listening intently to the source of the sigh.
Amidst the rolling waves of the Boundless Ocean, a colossal Whale could be seen gliding gracefully through the water. Its sheer size wasparable to that of an entire continent, and numerous mystic symbols danced around it like fireflies. This magnificent creature was a Qi Beast, an animal that had, through enigmatic means, acquired Qi and reached Ascension, bing a being capable of harnessing and manipting the Qi of Heaven and Earth. At present, the Qi Beast was swimming leisurely, yet all of a sudden, it ceased its movement, and a low, ancient voice escaped its lips as if it were muttering to itself.
"The time hase... and it won''t be too long before they too wake up..."
In the ethereal realm of the starry sky, one of the twelve Xuanwu turtles, guardians of the Heavenly Blockade river, slowly opened its ancient, amphibian eyes. Its gaze, which was like a beam of light piercing through the boundless void, gazed upon a distant figure, a person who would soone to y a pivotal role in the fate of the Divine Star Continent. With a deep sigh, the Xuanwu turtle closed its eyes once more, returning to its eternal slumber. But deep down, the turtle knew that the time was near, the time for the ancient slumbering powers to awaken and the bnce of the world to be shifted once more.
Throughout the vast expanse of the Qi World, strange happenings began to unfold, appearing all over the continents at the same exact moment. Although most people remained unaware, a select few were attuned to the fluctuations in the spiritual energy, sensing something ominous on the horizon. With each passing second, the frequency of these unusual events increased, as if a grand, unseen force was stirring. And then, as suddenly as they had begun, the urrences came to an abrupt halt. A deafening silence descended upon the Qi World, leaving the few who had noticed the events to wonder, what had just taken ce?
Days passed and suddenly, without any warning, ten mysterious figures d in ck robes descended upon the Green Lotus City. Their formidable, savage auras seemed to ripple across thend, sending shivers down the spines of all who dared to gaze upon them. To everyone''s surprise, the figures did not attack immediately upon arrival, but instead, they expertly arranged themselves into battle formations, each one poised and ready for anymand. The city was shrouded in an eerie silence, as the residents waited in fearful anticipation of the unknown threat that had descended upon them.
The guards on the city walls, despite their bravery and unwavering devotion to their duty, knew that they were no match for the powerful Qi cultivators standing before them. With solemn expressions, they retreated to safety, leaving the city''s experts to face the threat. The Green Lotus City, himself a powerful cultivator, couldn''t help but feel a twinge of apprehension as he gazed upon the imposing figures. Their auras were nothing short of devastating, radiating a potent, malevolent energy that threatened to engulf all in their path. The city braced itself for what was toe, for there was no telling what the ck-robed figures had in store for them.
Despite facing only a small number of opponents, each of these ten individuals possessed the power equivalent to a hundred-man army. In fact, if any of them were pitted against such a force, they would emerge victorious with ease. Their might was unmatched by mere mortals, and their mere presence instilled fear in their enemies. However, if the situation proved too dangerous, they possessed the ability to retreat with unparalleled swiftness, ensuring their escape and preserving their strength for another day. This was the hallmark of Qi Cultivators, and the reason why they struck terror in the hearts of their foes. Against mere mortals, they were truly unstoppable, and only other Qi Cultivators had the potential to challenge their power.
A palpable sense of dread descended upon Green Lotus City, enveloping it like a heavy shroud. Long Gen gazed out the window, his eyes fixed upon the familiar streets of the city, now bereft of their former liveliness. He couldn''t help but feel a twinge of sadness, realizing that this was likely to be his final farewell to this once-beautiful ce. For Green Lotus City was doomed, its very existence threatened by the wrath of the Immortal Devil Sect.
"This is the consequence you all must face for inciting the wrath of the Immortal Devil Sect," Long Gen muttered, his voice heavy with sorrow.
Long Gen took a deep breath and made his way towards Ximen Wei''s chamber. As he opened the door, he saw Ximen Wei sitting in a cross-legged position, his gaze fixed upon the pages of a new Qi Condensation Manual. Upon noticing Long Gen''s presence, Ximen Wei opened his eyes, and for a moment, they flickered with a sinister light before returning to their normal, deep ck hue.
The cultivation of this new Earth Grade Qi Condensation Manual had already had a profound effect on Ximen Wei, despite only practicing it for a few days. Though he remained at the first level of Qi Trainee, his grasp on the natural Qi of heaven and earth had improved dramatically. He could now store an impressive amount of Qi within his six Extraordinary Meridians, and his newly acquired Qi Techniques were a testament to his growing mastery.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 34 34 - The Attack On The Green Lotus City
?Ximen Wei had acquired several new Qi Techniques, each enhancing his abilities in a different way. One of the techniques was defensive in nature, fortifying his physical form and making it nearly imprable to des and spears. This technique rendered him nearly invulnerable to mortal weapons, ensuring his safety even in the face of danger. Another technique was focused on movement, allowing Ximen Wei to traverse distances with the swiftness of the wind. Lastly, he had also obtained an investigative technique, which sharpened his vision and expanded his line of sight to unprecedented lengths. These new techniques were a testament to Ximen Wei''s growing mastery of the art of Qi Cultivation, and the improvements they offered would serve him well in his future endeavors.
Additionally, over the course of the past several days, Long Gen had lent his assistance to Ximen Wei in his cultivation journey. He had provided rification on various concepts and imparted valuable lessons on the intricacies of Qi Cultivation. Long Gen covered a wide range of topics, from the origin of Qi Techniques to the significance of having a well-roundedbat system. His teachings were invaluable to Ximen Wei''s growth as a cultivator.
Ximen Wei was a veritable sponge, eagerly soaking up all the knowledge avable to him. His path towards reaching the second level of Qi Trainee was now clear, and under Long Gen''s guidance, it was only a matter of time before he achieved this coveted milestone. This prospect filled Ximen Wei with excitement
However, there was no time for contemtion or cultivation at present, for a decisive battle between Qi Cultivators was soon to unfold. Ximen Wei rose from his meditative state, bowing respectfully to Long Gen. He then positioned himself at Long Gen''s side, ready to receive his next instructions.
"Wei''er, you must leave the city and journey to the Tang Mountains," Long Gen spoke, "There you will find our Immortal Devil Sect. Present this medallion upon your arrival and it will grant you entry."
Long Gen handed Ximen Wei a medallion, its surface intricately depicting a one-horned devil with a forked tongue. As Ximen Wei gazed upon the medallion, he felt a sense of multifariousness and constant change emanating from it.
"The Devil," Ximen Wei whispered to himself, his eyes fixed on the medallion in his hands.
"Yes, that is the Devil, the revered patriarch of our Immortal Devil Sect," Long Gen confirmed, his voice ringing with pride.
Ximen Wei bowed once more to Long Gen, expressing his deep gratitude for the opportunity he had been given. Without Long Gen''s guidance and support, Ximen Wei would still be struggling on the deserted streets of Green Lotus City.
With a hearty pat on the shoulder, Long Gen encouraged Ximen Wei, "It is time for you to embark on your journey. I have arranged for an escort to apany you to the outskirts of the city. I myself must attend to some pressing matters here, but I shall return to the sect soon. Remember, do not die along the way!"
Ximen Wei nodded in agreement.
A man, middle-aged and adorned in a sleek ck robe, strode into the room with the air of someone who was familiar with his surroundings. He had a neatly trimmed goatee and a scarf that seemed out of ce, its vibrant colors standing out against the somber hues of his attire. He cast a friendly gaze upon Ximen Wei, his eyes crinkling with a smile as he spoke, "You must be Ximen Wei. I am Luo Tingfeng, and I am here to serve as your escort."
Ximen Wei studied the man before him, taking in his every detail. A nagging sense of recognition tugged at the back of his mind as he remembered the recent raid on the Luo gang. Could it be possible that this Luo Tingfeng was connected to that notorious group? Ximen Wei couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more to this man than met the eye.
''Isn''t it peculiar?'' Ximen Wei mused to himself, ''I was under the impression that the leader of the Luo gang had fallen during the Criminal District''s raid.''
However, it seemed that Ximen Wei''s assumptions were far from the truth. Luo Tingfeng, standing before him with a calm demeanor, was in fact the true head of the Luo gang. And his influence extended far beyond just that title. He was not only a gang leader, but also one of the revered Overlords of the Green Lotus City Criminal District and a highly respected Rank 1 Qi Expert. The level 2 Qi Trainee who was reported to have fallen in battle was merely a mere underling, a pawn in Luo Tingfeng''s grand scheme.
As Ximen Wei arrived at the periphery of the city, the ten cultivators garbed in ck robes who were stationed outside the city walls stirred from their meditative states. Their auras exploded forth, shaking both heaven and earth, as they rose to their feet and unsheathed their weapons. One of them, a Rank 2 Qi Expert, held an archaic wooden bow that seemed to hold great power within its ancient form. He cast his gaze towards the city walls, his eyes piercing through them andnding unerringly upon the Green Lotus City Lord who was resting in thefort of his mansion.
With fluid grace, the Rank 2 Qi Expert drew back the string of his bow. In a swirl of ethereal light, an arrow materialized, surrounded by a tiny vortex that seemed to consume the energy of the surrounding heaven and earth, infusing it with an unparalleled power.
As the Green Lotus City Lord became aware of the impending danger, he acted quickly, activating the spell formation that served as the city''s protective shield. The dome glimmered and pulsed with an array of brilliant hues as it fortified the city against the iing attack.
The Rank 2 Qi Expert, d in ck, narrowed his eyes as he took aim. With measured precision, he took a deep breath and released the arrow from his bow. The ethereal projectile shot forth, soaring towards its target with devastating force.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 35 35 - Fierce Battle
?A resounding rumble echoed throughout the area as the arrow transformed into a dazzling beam of prismatic light, hurtling towards the city walls with destructive force. Its path left a trail of destruction in its wake, disrupting the natural bnce of the surrounding environment. The spell formation, aglow with brilliant hues, valiantly attempted to repel the iing attack.
And then, a deafening boom rent the air as the two opposing forces shed, releasing a burst of energy that shook the very foundation of the city.
A thunderous, ear-shattering noise echoed through the air, causing Ximen Wei''splexion to pale as blood seeped from his ears. But, as if anticipating this oue, Luo Tingfeng swiftly waved his sleeve, creating a barrier that shielded Ximen Wei from the tumultuous shockwaves of the attack. The city convulsed and quaked violently as the spell formation, unable to withstand the might of the arrow, began to crack and crumble. The walls, reduced to dust and rubble, crumbled to the ground, unable to withstand the ferocity of the attack. The sounds of terror and panic echoed through the city as its mortal inhabitants, huddled in their shelters, cried out in fear and horror.
With a decisive nod, the bow-wielding man signaled his troops tounch their assault. The air was charged with anticipation as the warriors of the Green Lotus City, their Qi Cultivators, rose to meet the challenge posed by the mysterious ck-robed figures.
The sh of the two forces was like a tempest unleashed, shaking the very foundations of the earth. The sky was alight with the radiant glow of Qi Techniques and Magic Techniques as thebatants shed in a dazzling disy of power.
At the forefront of the battle stood the weakest of thebatants, a Level 3 Qi Trainee, their young bodies brimming with potential and determination. But even as the trainee engaged in their own skirmish, the eyes of all present were drawn to the spectacle unfolding between the two mightiest warriors.
A Rank 2 Qi Expert, his aura a zing inferno of raw power, stood tall and proud, facing off against the ck-robed figures. The air around him crackled with energy, and with each step he took, the ground trembled beneath his feet. The expert was a formidable opponent, and his mastery of the Qi Techniques was in for all to see.
As the two sides shed, the sky was lit up with a kaleidoscope of colors, each sh and spark a testament to the raw power being unleashed. It was a sight to behold, a moment frozen in time, and one that would be remembered for generations toe.
The Green Lotus City Lord brandished his weapon with fervent abandon, each strike exuding a ferocity that was both intimidating and awe-inspiring. His opponent, a ck-robed Rank 2 Qi Expert, was hard-pressed to evade the relentless attacks, his attempts to create distance constantly thwarted by the relentless onught.
The scene was one of chaos and destruction, as the two figures shed in a whirlwind of martial prowess. The surrounding terrain was devastated in mere moments, reduced to a ruined wastnd that was almost unrecognizable from its original form. The power of theirbat was beyondprehension, a testament to the mastery of their martial arts.
Each sh of the Green Lotus City Lord''s sword was met with a deft countermove by the ck-robed expert, but their dance of death was far from over. The two were evenly matched, their movements in perfect harmony, their strikes shing with the force of a tempest. The very earth shook beneath their feet, and the sky echoed with the sounds of their struggle.
In this moment, time seemed to stand still, as the two warriors locked in a timeless struggle, the oue of which was anyone''s guess. The power, speed, and precision of their movements was nothing short of awe-inspiring, and one could not help but be drawn into their dance of death. The scene was one of intense beauty.
The battle between the two factions'' Rank 1s was a showcase of evenly matched skill, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage. The Immortal Devil Sect had the upper hand due to their mastery of Qi Techniques and Magical Techniques, but the difference in strength was minimal.
However, the most astonishing spectacle was the fight between the Level 3s. The Immortal Devil Sect had sent only two Level 3 Qi Trainees, yet they were facing off against five Green Lotus City Level 3 Qi Trainees. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the young trainees from the Immortal Devil Sect proved to be formidable opponents.
At only 14 years old, these young warriors radiated a savage aura that was both daunting and terrifying. The stench of blood hung heavy in the air as they fought with a barbaric ferocity, seemingly unfazed by the injuries they sustained in battle. To the horror of the Green Lotus City cultivators, the young trainees from the Immortal Devil Sect were slowly gaining the upper hand. Their brutal and relentless approach was slowly overpowering their opponents, making the Green Lotus City cultivators feel fear grip their hearts.
In this intense showdown, the future of martial arts was on disy, as these young warriors demonstrated their prowess and fearlessness. The scene was one of raw, unbridled power, a testament to the strength and potential of these young warriors.
As the two young warriors from the Immortal Devil Sect fought with unbridled ferocity, the onlookers could only imagine the harsh training they must have undergone to be so brutal. The battlefield, though upied by only 23 men, was a maelstrom of martial arts power, its magnitude far surpassing that of a typical battle involving a thousand soldiers.
Amidst the chaos, Ximen Wei saw an opportunity to escape the city, slipping through the cracks and making his way towards the exit. The path was clear, leading him towards the hole created by the ck-robed man''s arrow.
As Ximen Wei and Luo Tingfeng approached the exit, Luo Tingfeng turned to face him. "This is as far as I can apany you," he said. "From here on out, you''ll have to rely on yourself to reach the Immortal Devil Sect. I must join mypanions and offer my assistance in the battle. We shall meet again in the future."
With a final salute, Luo Tingfeng transformed into a beam of light that shot towards the battlefield, joining the fray once more. It appeared that he was not alone in his decision, as others too made their way towards the raging conflict.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 36 36 - Mayhem
?As the city stirred with unease, the Criminal District''s Overlords and Long Gen emerged as beams of light, soaring towards the battlefield with malevolent intent. However, their progress was abruptly interrupted as the spell formation red with a kaleidoscope of colors, unleashing a crushing force that sapped the strength of the Immortal Devil Sect Cultivators, including Ximen Wei himself. In contrast, the Green Lotus City Cultivators appeared invigorated, their energies pulsing with newfound life.
This pressure was a fearsome spectacle, seemingly possessing the dual effects of both enfeebling the foes and fortifying the allies, a formidable disy of the Qi Techniques of Enfeeblement and Strengthening. The battlefield was awash with the swirling maelstrom of energies, a dazzling disy of the forces at y, as thebatants braced themselves for the impending conflict.
Ximen Wei lifted his gaze, his jaw clenched tightly in determination. The spell formation had stripped him of his formidable cultivation base, reducing him to the physical weakness of a ten-year-old child. But despite the setback, he steeled himself and pressed on, making his way towards the exit with unwavering resolve.
Just as he was within ten meters of freedom, Ximen Wei suddenly stumbled to a halt, his face draining of color as sweat poured down his face. In the shadows, a pair of eyes was fixed upon him, belonging to a Level 2 Qi Trainee who had been lying in wait. The tension was palpable as Ximen Wei stood frozen in ce.
As the current conflict did not permit the participation of Level 2 Qi Trainees, they had taken up station behind the battle lines, lurking in the shadows as vignt guards. Their task was to strike down any who dared to enter or exit the city, prepared to defend their post with unwavering determination. Their presence served as a reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows, a constant threat to those who would dare to defy their authority.
The Level 2 Qi Trainee did not discriminate based on age, nor did he care if Ximen Wei was a mere child. With a cold and calcted grace, he unsheathed his iron sword and took a step forward, stepping into the light as he emerged from the shadows. The weak rays of the sun shone upon him, illuminating his features and revealing his face to Ximen Wei.
As Ximen Weiid eyes on his adversary, his expression faltered, a mixture of recognition and despair washing over him.
The red-haired Qi Trainee from the Song family stood before Ximen Wei, his eyes zing with anger. His voice boomed as he barked the single word, "Halt!" Ximen Wei could sense the tension radiating off the young man, the aura of his fury palpable in the air. He knew that he was not in a good mood, and Ximen Wei couldn''t me him. After all, someone had wreaked havoc within the walls of the Song family''s secret dungeon, killing countless guards and seriously injuring one of their Level 1 Qi Trainees.
As Ximen Wei''s mind raced, he weighed his options. Should he deliver himself to the red-haired cultivator, or should he make a break for it? The decision was not an easy one, as both choices carried significant consequences.
Ximen Wei''s mind raced as he considered his options. If he surrendered himself to the red-haired Qi Trainee, he was sure to meet his demise. The young man''s expression was filled with a thirst for justice and retribution, and Ximen Wei knew that he would not hesitate to strike him down. On the other hand, if he attempted to escape, he would be cing himself in an even more precarious position. Despite being in peak condition and possessing a Level 1 Cultivation Base, he was no match for the young Level 2 Qi Trainee in terms of battle prowess or speed.
With these thoughts weighing heavy on his mind, Ximen Wei was faced with a difficult decision. Should he resign himself to his fate, or should he strive for the slightest chance of survival?
Ximen Wei''s choice became clear to him in an instant. He would not surrender himself to his fate, not without a fight. With a fierce determination, he made a break for it, his expression turning savage. The young man from the Song family''s expression turned ugly as he watched Ximen Wei flee, his eyes filled with offense. He quickly gave chase, determined to bring Ximen Wei to justice.
However, to Ximen Wei''s surprise, the red-haired young man did not use his cultivation base to pursue him. It seemed that, unlike the unscrupulous Old Mao, he considered it beneath his status to use his powers to capture a mere ten-year-old mortal child. Despite this, Ximen Wei did not let his guard down, for he knew that the young man''s physical abilities alone were enough to pose a significant threat. With his heart pounding in his chest, Ximen Wei pushed himself to run faster.
On the battlefield, Long Gen was locked in a fierce struggle with another Rank 2 Qi Expert. This expert was among the reinforcements from Western Wen, and he radiated a righteous and wise aura as he battled against Long Gen, who exuded a fiendish and demonic will.
To those observing the fight, it appeared as if the Western Wen Cultivator was an immortal locked inbat with the devil himself. The fight was a stark contrast of righteousness against evil, a battle between two pr opposites. The onlookers held their breath as they watched, their hearts pounding with excitement and anticipation. This was no ordinary fight, but a sh of ideals, a struggle for the very soul of the world.
Long Gen fought with reckless abandon, his veins bulging beneath his skin as he unleashed punches that threatened to surpass the heavens. His eyes gleamed with a devilish red hue, and the outline of a horn could be seen protruding from his forehead.
Opposite him, the Western Wen Cultivator was a vision of serenity, dressed in a white robe that fluttered in the wind. With a wave of his sleeve, he unleashed a barrage of magical techniques that seemed plucked from the pages of a fantasy novel. Each one of these techniques was imbued with the power of the immortals, striking fear into the hearts of all who beheld them. As the two fighters shed, it was clear that this was a battle for the ages, one that would be remembered for generations toe.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 37 37 - Desolate Astral Forest
?As Ximen Wei emerged from the tumultuous chaos, his eyes were immediately drawn to the vista of the battlefield. The vibrant hues that illuminated the area were nothing short of mesmerizing, and Ximen Wei felt a rush of adrenaline as he gazed upon the spectacle. With a determined step, he quickened his pace, eager to immerse himself in the fray once more.
But the red-haired Cultivator, who had been moving with a stride alongside Ximen Wei, suddenly came to a halt. He stood still for a moment, lost in thought as he gazed out at the kaleidoscope of colors before him. His expression was one of contemtion, as if he was weighing the gravity of the situation and considering his next move.
The red-haired Cultivator was a formidable opponent, with an astute and cunning mind. He knew that wherever Ximen Wei went, he would be able to track him with ease. Yet, as Ximen Wei scampered off into the distance, the Cultivator''s eyes took on a sinister glint. He slowly turned on his heel, deciding that pursuing a ten-year-old child was beneath his station.
Meanwhile, Ximen Wei waspletely unaware of the Cultivator''s machinations. He was overjoyed at the realization that his pursuer was no longer in pursuit. With a wide smile spreading across his face, he picked himself up and set his sights on the forest near Green Lotus City, known to many as the Deste Astral Forest. Ximen Wei wanted to explore the unknown, not knowing the danger thaty ahead in the enigmatic woond.
One of the reasons the red-haired Cultivator did not chase him was because of this.
...
The Deste Astral Forest is apact yet treacherous woond that lies in close proximity to Green Lotus City. ording to local lore, a catastrophic battle between two renowned Qi Experts had forever altered the very fabric of the forest, transforming it into a strange and iprehensible environment. Over time, the mutated forest became a haven for wildlife and especially Qi Beasts.
Qi Beasts are creatures that, through some unknown means, have gained enlightenment and cultivated their own Qi, bing beings that exist on a higher ne than regr animals. In the same way that humans shed their mortal coil and attain a higher form when they reach Qi Ascension, Qi Beasts have transcended the limits of their animal nature.
Unfortunately, the Deste Astral Forest is now nearly overrun by these powerful Qi Beasts, making it a prime destination for Qi Cultivators seeking to harvest Beast Cores and other valuable materials.
Ximen Wei was visible on the fringes of the Deste Astral Forest, his chest heaving as he struggled to catch his breath. He had run for some time, seeking refuge in the solitude of the forest, and now leaned against a sturdy oak tree to recover. Despite the rtive peace of his surroundings, the sounds ofbat could still be heard in the distance, a reminder of the ongoing conflict between the Immortal Devil Sect Cultivators and the Green Lotus City Cultivators.
The sight of the battle that he witnessed only served to galvanize Ximen Wei''s resolve, fueling his desire to be stronger and to attain greater power. With resolution in his eyes, he pushed himself away from the tree and set his sights on the unknown depths of the Deste Astral Forest.
Ximen Wei''s pace was measured and deliberate as he made his way through the dense forest, wary of any potential threats from the Qi Beasts that roamed the area. Despite hisbat prowess, he knew that caution was the best approach for now. Each step was taken with care, his senses attuned to the surrounding wilderness as he sought to avoid drawing the attention of any potentially dangerous creatures.
However, Ximen Wei was not without hope. He weed the chance to engage with weaker Qi Beasts, as these encounters would provide an opportunity to hone his skills and strengthen his body. The journey ahead was long and uncertain, but he was determined to make it to the other end of the forest.
With his progress slowed by caution, Ximen Wei estimated that it would take him a full week to reach his destination. He was acutely aware of his limited supplies, as he had not thought to bring any food or water with him on his journey. The only possessions he carried were the medallion gifted to him by Long Gen and the Earth Grade Qi Condensation Manual, both of which were of immeasurable value to him.
Thankfully, Ximen Wei''s status as a Qi Cultivator meant that he had a different method of sustenance. As he progressed through the ranks, he would eventually be able to nourish himself through the natural energy of Heaven and Earth, negating the need for food altogether. At present, as a Level 1 Qi Trainee, he still required sustenance, although not with the same frequency as a mortal.
Despite the uncertainty of his supplies, Ximen Wei was resourceful. He collected wild blueberries along his journey and stored them in his pockets, ensuring that he would have a small supply of food when necessary. And, during his journey, he would pause to study the teachings in the Earth Grade Qi Condensation Manual, drawing strength from the wisdom contained within its pages.
Ximen Wei''s progress was nothing short of impressive. He was making rapid advancements, and he felt that within three months, he would reach a new milestone - breaking through to the second level of Qi Trainee and opening his seventh Extraordinary Meridian. Despite these achievements, Ximen Wei was not satisfied. He frowned, feeling that his progress was not fast enough.
Ximen Wei''s journey as a cultivator was filled with challenges and difficulties. The progression from one level to the next grew increasingly difficult with each advancement. Despite his rapid progress, Ximen Wei was aware that it would take years to reach the coveted rank of Rank 1 Qi Expert. And even this was predicated on the assumption that no unexpected obstacles would arise.
The thought of being stuck in a bottleneck during the third level of Qi Trainee was a daunting one. It was a potential oue that threatened to derail his progress and rob him of the chance to reach Qi Ascension and be an official Qi Cultivator. The stakes were high, and Ximen Wei was keenly aware of the importance of maintaining his momentum and avoiding any pitfalls that might stand in his way.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 38 38 - Unknown Creature
?As Ximen Wei made his daily pilgrimage through the dense underbrush, his tranquil journey was abruptly interrupted by the discovery of a strange and unknown life form. His heart raced with fear as he cautiously approached the strange creature, unsure of what dangers it may pose.
With stealth and precision, Ximen sought refuge in the nearby bushes, peering through the foliage at the enigmatic creature. The sight that met his eyes was unlike anything he had ever encountered before, a spectacle that would challenge the foundations of his understanding and shake the very fabric of his beliefs.
As Ximen Wei emerged from the safety of the bushes, his gaze was met with a formidable sight. A massive bull,y slumbering before a darkened cave. The creature was adorned with small demonic wings, a sight that would have struck terror into the hearts of lesser men.
Upon closer inspection, Ximen realized that the bull was not just any ordinary beast. The fluctuations of Qi energy emanating from its body indicated that it was a Qi Beast, a formidable creature with power beyond that of ordinary animals. Ximen''s instincts told him that this was a level 2 Qi Trainee, a being that he would normally have no chance of defeating.
Ximen Wei''s thoughts were consumed by the possibilities thaty before him. He was well aware that if he was sessful in acquiring the Beast Core from the sleeping bull, it would be a turning point in his cultivation journey. The Beast Core, the source of the creature''s power, would allow him to progress to the second level of Qi training with ease and swiftness.
But even if Ximen had no personal interest in using the Beast Core for his own cultivation, he understood the value it held in the marketce. With the right buyer, he could receive an unprecedented sum of money.
As Ximen Wei gazed upon the sleeping winged-bull, his eyes shone with a greedy glint. He remembered passing by a bamboo field earlier in his journey and seized upon the opportunity to gather materials for his trap. With purposeful strides, he retrieved his dagger and set off towards the bamboo field.
The bamboo shoots were tall and slender, and Ximen selected the strongest and most flexible of them for his project.
With his dagger in hand, Ximen set to work, carefully cutting the bamboo into equal lengths and shaping each one into a sharp spear. He then dug a deep pit, taking care to make the edges as smooth as possible so that the beast wouldn''t suspect anything.
Next, Ximen began to rig the pit with a series of tension cords made from sturdy vines he found growing near the bamboo field. He attached one end of each cord to the bamboo spears and the other end to strategically ced stakes, ensuring that the cords were taut and ready to snap when triggered.
The final step was to disguise the trap. Ximen covered the pit with ayer of leaves and grass, taking care to blend it in with the surrounding terrain. He then scattered a trail of bait, leading the beast straight to the trap.
However, Ximen''s sense of unease lingered. Despite the deadly trap he had crafted, he felt that it was still far from enough. The beast was a formidable opponent, and Ximen was determined to leave nothing to chance. He spent hours fine-tuning his n, seeking out additional resources and devising new strategies to ensure his sess.
Ximen Wei knew that simply relying on a booby trap alone would not be enough to bring down the formidable winged-bull. Its skin, like that of all Qi Beasts and Qi Cultivators, was tough as stone and would easily resist the sharp bamboo spears. So, Ximen set out to find a way to increase the destructive power of his trap.
Despite the difficulties posed by the mutated nature of the forest, Ximen persevered and eventually came across a tree that he deemed suitable for his needs. With great effort, he hacked away at the trunk with his dagger, cutting it down and dragging it back to the trap site.
With the tree in ce, Ximen set to work, arranging it in such a way that, if the bull were to fall into the pit, the massive trunk woulde crashing down from above, adding a formidable amount of weight to the already deadly trap. Ximen''s engineering skills were put to the test as he bnced the trunk and rigged it with a series of tension cords, ready to unleash its full force upon the unsuspecting beast.
Ximen Wei stood steadfast, his hands moving in fluid gestures as he cast spells upon himself and his surroundings. The bamboo spears hanging from the tree overhead glinted menacingly as the tips were imbued with his "Qi Technique - Sharpen". Despite the exertion, Ximen Wei''s eyes were determined and his breaths steady as he prepared for the battle ahead.
Hours of preparation and incantation had gone into setting this trap, but Ximen Wei knew it still wasn''t enough. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, steeling himself for the task ahead. With a deep inhale, he began to channel his qi, casting "Qi Technique - Strengthen" upon himself. A rush of power coursed through his veins, making him feel more alive and invigorated.
Next, Ximen Wei summoned the "Qi Technique - Bedevilment". The air around him grew thick with malevolent energy as his aura shifted, bing darker and more sinister. His eyes shone with a red gleam, and the faint outline of a horn could be seen upon his forehead. The new Qi Condensation Manual had greatly enhanced this technique, epassing all aspects ofbat.
Ximen Wei''s body was awash with power, his senses heightened as he felt his skin grow rough and his nerves be numb to the sensation of pain. He gazed upon the sleeping winged-bull with the focused intensity of a lion stalking its prey. With a fluid motion, heunched a bamboo stick towards the beast, ready to see the result of his hours of preparation.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 39 39 - Beast Core
?The sound of a mighty roar echoed through the forest as the winged-bull wakes, disturbed by the impact of the bamboo stick that had prated its hide. Ximen Wei was momentarily taken aback by the sess of his attack, having not expected the bamboo stick to pierce the formidable hide of the Qi Beast. However, with three Qi Techniques cast, he realized that this oue was only natural given the increase in power and strength that he had imbued upon himself.
With steely determination, Ximen Wei pushed himself to the limit and cast another Qi Technique. The incantation "Qi Technique - Enfeeble" left his lips, and the merest trickle of blood leaked from his nose, a testament to the strain of unleashing four Qi Techniques simultaneously. Despite this, the effect was instantaneous, as the Qi Beast''s movements grew sluggish and its senses dulled.
However, the beast was not easily deterred, and it charged towards Ximen Wei with a speed that belied its weakened state. Just as it was about to reach him, it stumbled into the trap that Ximen Wei had so carefully set, its momentuming to a sudden halt.
The winged-bull''s roar of rage and pain echoed through the forest, a testament to the ferocity of Ximen Wei''s trap. Bamboo sticks pierced its body, immobilizing it as it struggled in vain. With a resounding crash, a massive tree trunk descended upon the beast, crushing its lower body into a mangled mess of flesh and bone. Despite its injuries, the beast''s eyes still burned with hatred and anger as it red at Ximen Wei. But its life was finally brought to an end as Ximen Wei plunged his dagger into its forehead, putting an end to its suffering. With a sigh, Ximen Wei gazed upon the fallen beast and murmured to himself, "That was quick."
It appeared that Ximen Wei had overstatemated the winged-bull Qi Beast, having initially judged its strength based on the fluctuations in its aura. He had believed that it was on par with a Level 2 Qi Trainee, but upon closer examination, it was clear that it was teetering on the brink between a Level 1 and Level 2.
Ximen Wei retrieved the lifeless body of the winged-bull Qi Beast from the booby trap, feeling a tinge of regret as he surveyed the ruined state of its lower half. Meat was a rare treat for him, especially considering his diet primarily consisted of foraged fruits and vegetables. He flipped the beast''s body and began the task of dissecting it, his movements precise and steady as he searched for its valuable treasures. Finally, after sifting through the internal organs, his fingertips brushed against a small, gleaming pebble.
The glowing pebble was like a beacon of hope in Ximen Wei''s eyes, its diminutive size belied the immense power it held within. As he held it in his hand, he could feel a rush of energy coursing through his veins, revitalizing him and filling him with newfound strength. The cold surface of the pebble was a soothing sensation on his skin, and it even seemed to calm the restless energy within his Extraordinary Meridians.
This was the Beast Core, extracted from the body of the winged-bull Qi Beast. It was a treasure that many would kill for in the outside world, and Ximen Wei was well aware of its value. With the right methods, a mortal could be a Level 1 Qi Trainee simply by absorbing this core, bypassing the arduous process of cultivating a Qi Condensation Manual.
As Ximen Wei held the Beast Core in his hand, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of disappointment. He had expected something grander, more powerful, and more enriched with energy and Qi. He had been hoping for a Beast Core from a fully ascended Qi Beast, something that could take his cultivation to the next level and help him break through to new realms.
Despite his disappointment, Ximen Wei knew that he couldn''t afford to be picky. Any Beast Core had the potential to aid in his cultivation journey, and he had to make do with what he had. The Beast Core before him might have been considered immature, but it still held significant power, and it was his best chance at advancing his cultivation.
With a determined look on his face, Ximen Wei pocketed the Beast Core and began to make his way out of the area. He knew that the stench of blood and gore would attract other beasts, and he didn''t want to be caught in the middle of a battle.
Several hours of trekking through the dense forest led him to an empty cave, and Ximen Wei knew that this was his chance to absorb the Beast Core. He quickly set up traps around the cave to ensure his safety and sat down, cross-legged, to begin the process.
As he held the Beast Core in his hand, he felt a warm current of energy begin to flow through his veins. It was a powerful sensation, one that he had never experienced before, and he knew that he was on the brink of a major breakthrough.
For the next several hours, Ximen Wei remained in the cave,pletely absorbed in the process of absorbing the Beast Core. The energy coursing through his veins was intense, but he was able to keep his focus and allow it to nourish his body and elevate it to new heights.
Meanwhile, four men moved with purpose as they made their way into the Deste Astral Forest, each step taken with precision and confidence. Dressed in the Green Lotus City uniform and bearing the emblem of the Song family on their sleeves, they were clearly on a mission of great importance.
As they walked deeper into the forest, two of the men emitted a powerful aura that could only belong to Qi Cultivators. It was clear that they were not to be trifled with, and any beasts that dared to approach them would do so at their own peril.
Their destination remained unclear, but their movements suggested that they knew exactly where they were going. The thick underbrush of the forest did nothing to hinder their progress, and they moved with a speed and agility that spoke of years of training and experience.
asionally missing content, please report errors in time.
Chapter 40 40 - Tracking Down
?The sun beat down on the vast and dense canopy of the Deste Astral Forest, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor below. The air was thick with the scent of earth, moss, and the faint aroma of distant herbs. The silence was broken by the soft crunch of footsteps on fallen leaves, and the asional rustle of undergrowth as the red-haired young man and Dongfang made their way through the forest.
Their goal was simple: to retrieve a coveted treasure from a 10-year-old boy who had somehow managed to survive in the treacherous forest for an unknown length of time. The treasure in question was a Qi Scroll - a precious item that could hold the key to unlocking unparalleled power.
As they approached their quarry, Dongfang spoke up, his voice hushed but filled with anticipation. "Are you sure he''s not dead yet?"
The red-haired young man nodded confidently, a smirk ying at the corners of his lips. "Yep, even I can''t believe a 10 year old kid can survive for this long. But even if he dies, that doesn''t matter. We''ll just pick the treasure from his body."
Dongfang''s eyes gleamed with excitement at the mention of the treasure. "A 10-year-old child running around with a Qi Scroll, it definitely must be some precious treasure. Maybe an unprecedented Qi Technique? Or even a Qi Condensation Manual!"
The red-haired young man nodded in agreement. "Indeed, when I saw the treasure on him, I didn''t want to bring any unwanted attention from those entrics fighting, so I just threw a tracking talisman at him."
Dongfang''s expression lit up with admiration. "What a brilliant decision of yours! If any of these Level 3 entrics saw you chasing that kid, they''d definitely think something weird is going on. So you pretended like you let the matter drop and let the kid go! Absolutely genius!"
As they continued through the forest, the conversation turned to the dangers they might face. "However, what are we going to do about the Qi Beasts here?" Dongfang asked, his voice tinged with concern. "I''ve heard the Deste Astral Forest has a King Qi Beast who is equivalent to a Rank 2 Qi Expert... If we stumble upon it by ident, we''re gone."
The red-haired young man''s eyes narrowed, his mind already working out a n. "We''ll have to be careful and avoid any unnecessary confrontations. We can''t let anything stand in the way of getting that Qi Scroll."
The red-haired man chuckled as he produced a seemingly unremarkable bronzentern from his bag. With a smirk, he ignited the wick, and a faint blue me flickered to life. Despite its unassuming appearance, this was no ordinaryntern - it was the Song Family Ancestral Treasure.
Dongfang''s eyes widened in surprise as he recognized the artifact. "You''ve brought the Song Family''s one and only Qi Artifact! I can''t even believe that you gained the Patriarch''s approval to bring this item with us. Good, good. With this item, we don''t have to worry about any beasts."
The red-haired man nodded, a smug grin on his face. "That''s right. This artifact has been passed down through generations of the Song Family. It''s a powerful Qi Artifact that can suppress any Qi Beast that we might encounter in the Deste Astral Forest."
With thentern in hand, the group made their way into the depths of the forest, the blue me illuminating their path. The flickering light cast eerie shadows on the trees, and the air was thick with the sounds of nocturnal creatures.
But with the Song Family Ancestral Treasure in their possession, they were unfazed by any beasts that might cross their path. They moved through the forest with ease, their confidence growing with each step.
As they pressed deeper into the forest, the air grew colder and the trees grew taller and more twisted. But the group pressed on, driven by their desire for the coveted Qi Scroll.
The red-haired man and Dongfang exchanged nces, their eyes sparkling with anticipation. With the Song Family Ancestral Treasure to protect them.
The battle between the Qi Cultivators in Green Lotus City hade to a close, its oue shrouded in mystery. Ximen Wei, meanwhile, had taken refuge in a nearby thicket, crouched low and waiting for a pack of one-horned alpacas to pass.
The encounter had been entirely idental, and Ximen Wei had nearly soiled himself with fear at the sight of the beasts. Their power was staggering - each one was a Qi Beastparable to a Level 1 Qi Trainee, with some at the forefront that exuded auras akin to Level 2 or even Level 3 Qi Trainees.
After waiting for several hours, the pack had finally passed by, and Ximen Wei breathed a deep sigh of relief. The Deste Astral Forest was every bit as dangerous as its name suggested. One misstep, one false move, and you could find yourself in a perilous situation.
As he caught his breath, Ximen Wei couldn''t help but marvel at the wonders of the forest. Its verdant foliage and exotic flora were unlike anything he had seen before, but they were also a stark reminder of the dangers that lurked within.
Fortune had smiled upon Ximen Wei when he had absorbed the Beast Core - his senses had been heightened significantly, making him far more attuned to his surroundings. It was a stroke of luck that had undoubtedly saved him from a dire situation.
As he made his way through the dense foliage, he couldn''t help but reflect on how much his newfound abilities had changed his perception of the world. His senses were now sharper than ever before, and he could sense the slightest movement or sound from miles away.
It was this heightened state of awareness that had allowed him to avoid a potentially fatal encounter with a massive pack of almost 200 one-horned alpacas. Without his newfound sensitivity, he would have beenpletely caught off guard, and the consequences could have been catastrophic.
Chapter 41 41 - Swamp
?Ximen Wei was left perplexed by the stealthy nature of the one-horned alpacas. Despite his heightened senses, he had beenpletely caught off guard by their presence. It was almost as if they had been deliberately hiding their auras, so as not to attract attention.
What was even more disconcerting to Ximen Wei was the nature of their horns. As he studied them more closely, he couldn''t help but notice that their aura was strangely reminiscent of his own Qi Technique, Bedevilment.
The aura emanating from their horns was multifaceted and ever-changing, making it difficult for Ximen Wei to pinpoint exactly what was going on. It was as if the horns possessed some kind of mysterious power that he couldn''t quiteprehend.
As Ximen Wei pondered over the mystery of the one-horned alpacas, he couldn''t help but be captivated by their peculiar auras. It was abination of devilish and defiled energies, almost as if the beasts had been touched by dark forces. He had read about these Qi Beasts in the World Encyclopedia, but seeing them up close was an entirely different experience.
As he continued his journey through the Deste Astral Forest, Ximen Wei couldn''t shake the feeling of unease that had settled in his gut. Every rustle of leaves, every snap of twigs made him jump in anticipation of an attack from the beasts that lurked in the shadows. The forest was a dangerous ce, and one misstep could lead to certain death.
As he walked, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty of the forest. The trees towered over him, their branches stretching towards the heavens. The leaves rustled gently in the breeze, and the sun shone down through the canopy, casting dappled light on the forest floor.
As Ximen Wei journeyed further into the Deste Astral Forest, his initial estimations proved to be grossly underestimated. Time stretched on, with each day feeling like an eternity as he pushed forward. The forest seemed never-ending, and its perils countless. It was a ce where danger lurked at every turn, and only the most prepared and skilled of adventurers could hope to survive.
Each step brought new challenges for Ximen Wei, as he saw countless Qi Beasts that he had never seen before. Saber-toothed tigers with razor-sharp fangs prowled in the shadows, ready to pounce at a moment''s notice. Giant striped elephants with tusks like spears were a formidable sight, their eyes locked onto their prey. Ximen Wei even encountered bees that were the size of a small child''s fist, their stingers as deadly as any sword.
Despite his growing experience and mastery of his Qi Technique, the odds seemed stacked against Ximen Wei. The forest was an unforgiving ce, and it tested his limits at every turn. As he pressed on, he couldn''t help but wonder how much longer he could endure the trials and tribtions of the Deste Astral Forest.
Ximen Wei let out a heavy sigh, his mind in turmoil as he thought about this world. As he took in the sights and sounds of this strange and mysterious ce, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement. This world was unlike anything he had ever experienced before, a ce filled with untold secrets and hidden treasures, just waiting to be uncovered.
In spite of his initial thoughts, Ximen Wei hade to realize that the Qi World was not so bad after all. In fact, he had grown quite fond of this ce, and the thought of leaving filled him with a deep sense of sadness. But he knew that he had made a promise, and he was honor-bound to keep it.
As he made his way across the treacherous terrain, Ximen Wei''s mind wandered back to his recent sesses. He had managed to acquire two more Beast Cores, each one from a Qi Beast equivalent to a Level 1 Human Qi Trainee. While they were not as potent as the Beast Core belonging to the winged-bull, they still held a considerable amount of energy, and had propelled Ximen Wei''s cultivation base to new heights.
The seventh Extraordinary Meridian had been a particrly difficult challenge, but with his unyielding willpower and unrelenting determination, Ximen Wei had managed to solidify it to a staggering 70%pletion. This was a remarkable achievement, and one that he was immensely proud of.
He could feel a tangible difference in his power and energy. The once faint flow of Qi around him now pulsed with a vibrant energy, and he could sense it more clearly than ever before. With each passing day, his progress elerated, and he found himself growing stronger at an unprecedented rate.
The power coursing through his body was astounding, and with every new day, Ximen Wei felt more confident in his abilities. His training had be second nature to him, and he had developed an acute sense of his surroundings, able to detect even the slightest fluctuations in the natural energy around him.
But it wasn''t just his body that was evolving - Ximen Wei''s knowledge of the Qi World was growing with each passing day. With the Earth-grade Qi Condensation Manual provided by Long Gen, he had unlocked new insights into the nature of Qi, learning how to absorb it more efficiently and effectively than ever before.
This newfound knowledge,bined with his tireless efforts, meant that Ximen Wei was now on the cusp of reaching the second level of Qi Trainees in less than two months.
One day passed.
As Ximen Wei journeyed on through the vast expanse of the forest he stumble upon a swamp that stopped him in his tracks. The swamp stretched out as far as the eye could see, and he knew that there was no way around it - the only way forward was through.
But as he peered more closely at the murky, viscous liquid before him, Ximen Wei felt a sudden wave of nausea and revulsion wash over him. This was no ordinary swamp - it was a swamp made entirely of human flesh and organs, a ghastly amalgamation of blood and viscera that seemed to pulsate and writhe beneath his feet.
The stench of death and decay hung heavily in the air, and Ximen Wei could feel his heart pounding in his chest as he contemted the horrors before him. How could such a thing exist in the world, he wondered? What kind of twisted and malevolent force could have created something so abhorrent?
For a moment, Ximen Wei felt a deep sense of despair wash over him. How could he possibly navigate this monstrous obstacle, this swamp of blood and gore?
Chapter 42 42 - Qi Lord
?Ximen Wei''s heart raced as he gazed out over the damp, murky swamp before him. The pungent smell that hung heavily in the air was nearly overpowering, causing his head to spin and his stomach to churn with nausea.
As he cautiously stepped forward, Ximen''s eyes scanned the surface of the swamp, taking in the eerie sight of what appeared to be faces - faces frozen in expressions of pure terror. With a shudder, he realized that these faces were not only just human, but the skins of long-dead creatures.
The thought of what horrors must have lurked in these murky depths made Ximen''s skin crawl, and he felt a cold sweat break out on his brow. He forced himself to take a deep breath and steel his nerves. He knew that he could not let fear get the better of him.
Ximen Wei''s stomach turned as he took another step forward, the revolting sound of his foot sinking into the sludge sending waves of nausea through his body. He struggled to hold back the bile rising in his throat, his face turning a ghastly shade of white as he willed himself to keep moving forward.
The muck and gore that engulfed him were like nothing he had ever experienced before. It reached up to his knees, an abhorrent mixture of decaying flesh and stagnant water that clung to his skin like a secondyer. As he trudged forward, it felt as if he were wading through a snowdrift, each step a battle against the repugnant, slimy mass.
The putrid stench that filled the air was almost suffocating, and Ximen''s eyes began to water from the sheer disgust of it all. The warmth that radiated up from the swamp was sickening, sending shivers up his spine and causing goosebumps to break out all over his body.
He had to remind himself to breathe, to take slow, measured breaths and not let the horror of this ce overwhelm him. Each step forward was a triumph, a testament to his resilience in the face of such revolting circumstances.
Flies swarmed relentlessly in the stagnant air of the swamp, their incessant buzzing filling Ximen Wei''s ears. He was acutely aware of the danger they posed, their insatiable hunger for flesh a constant threat to his safety. Without the small protective shield of Qi he had cast around his body, he knew that he would already be consumed by their ravenous appetite.
The thought of drowning in a sea of insects sent shivers down Ximen''s spine, and he could feel his muscles tensing with the effort of maintaining his protective barrier. The energy it took to maintain the shield was draining, but he knew that it was the only thing keeping him alive in this ursed ce.
As he trudged forward, the flies seemed to grow more and more aggressive, their frenzied attacks battering against his shield like waves against a cliff face. Ximen gritted his teeth, determined not to let them break through his defenses.
The sound of their wings was deafening, and Ximen could feel their tiny, wriggling bodies crawling across the surface of his shield. It was a horrific sensation, one that he hoped never to experience again.
Shortly after Ximen Wei had departed, four men arrived at the spot where he had previously stood. Among them was a red-haired young man who carried a bronzentern in his hand. His fiery locks seemed to ze in the dim light of thentern, his sharp features betraying a sense of cunning intelligence.
As the group surveyed their surroundings, the air around them seemed to grow thick with tension. Each of the men exuded a sense of quiet confidence, their movements precise and calcted.
Shortly after Ximen Wei''s departure, a group of four men arrived at the same spot, their footsteps muffled by the thick mire beneath their feet. Among them was a red-haired young man, who carried a bronzentern in his hand, the flickering light casting eerie shadows across his face.
As they arrived at the edge of the swamp, the men quickly donned masks, their faces contorting in disgust at the abominable sight before them. The stench that wafted up from the swamp was enough to make even the strongest of stomachs turn.
Dongfang, the leader of the group, wiped the sweat from his forehead and began to exin the history of this cursed ce to hispanions. "This swamp is known as the Devil''s Gut," he said, his voice hushed and serious. "Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but the family patriarch once told me that in ancient times, a powerful cultivator ughtered countless others here. Their resentment and hatred lingered, cursing this ce and turning it into the sole restricted area of the Deste Astral Forest."
The red-haired young man''s face paled as he heard the story, his body shuddering involuntarily. And yet, in his eyes burned a fierce, ambitious light, a longing to conquer.
The red-haired young man''s eyes were wide with incredulity as he surveyed the vast expanse of the swamp, the putrid stench filling his nostrils. It was impossible to fathom just how many lives had been lost in this ce, the swamp serving as a macabre monument to the ughter that had urred here.
"What kind of cultivation base would it take to kill so many cultivators?" he wondered aloud, his mind reeling at the thought.
Dongfang, the group''s leader, looked at him with a solemn expression. "I cannot say for certain," he replied, his voiceced with reverence. "But the expert whomitted this heinous act would have had to possess at least a cultivation base of legendary Rank 4 Qi Lord. It takes a level of power beyond our wildest imagination to have perpetrated such a massacre."
The young man''s face went pale at the thought, a shiver running down his spine.
The red-haired young man was left speechless at Dongfang''s words, his mind struggling to grasp the magnitude of what he had just heard.
"A Qi Lord," he gasped, his voice barely above a whisper.
Chapter 43 43 - Cries
?The other two members of the group exchanged confused nces, ignorant of the significance of the term. But to cultivators, the title of Qi Lord was something akin to legend - a symbol of the highest echelons of power that one could hope to attain.
To achieve such a title, one must possess a cultivation base of legendary Rank 4 Qi Lord, a feat that was nearly impossible to imagine. The mere thought of such power left the red-haired young man in awe, his mind conjuring images of legendary battles and mountains of corpses.
Qi Lords were the rulers of the world, their wordw and their actions absolute. With the flick of a wrist, they could cause rivers of blood to flow and mountains to crumble, their power beyond theprehension of mortal minds.
Qi Lords were indeed rare and powerful individuals, and the red-haired young man knew this all too well. Despite being a Level 2 Qi Trainee, he understood the gravity of the situation. The Devil''s Gut was an extremely dangerous ce even for Level 3 Qi Trainees, let alone a mere Level 2 Qi Trainee like himself. The young man''spanions continued to voice their concerns, warning him about the danger thaty ahead. "The risks are too high, young master. Even a cultivator at Level 3 Qi Training would struggle to survive in the Devil''s Gut," one of them said. The young man''s face was inscrutable as he weighed his options. He was the young master of the Noble Song Family, a n with a revered Rank 1 Qi Expert as its patriarch.
The red-haired young man''s mind raced as he considered the implications of the curse. It was a danger unlike any other, a curse that could not be defeated by brute force or Qi prowess. It was something that could not be seen, touched or felt, but its effects were real and deadly.
He looked at hispanions, who wore simr expressions of concern on their faces. They were all aware of the risks involved in entering the Devil''s Gut, and the consequences of underestimating the curse.
He took a deep breath, his eyes fixed on the swamp in front of them. He was a young master, a member of one of the most powerful families in the Divine Star Continent, but he knew that even his status and power might not be enough to protect him from the curse.
The reverence for the Song Family Patriarch was not unfounded, as he was one of the few people who can im to have seen and experienced the mysteries of the universe. The red-haired young man had heard countless tales of the Patriarch''s exploits, and every single one of them was more incredible than thest.
If the Patriarch said that the curse was real, then it must be true. The red-haired young man would rather be safe than sorry, especially when ites to a ce as dangerous as the Devil''s Gut.
The red-haired young man stood at the edge of a precipice, gazing out at the rugged terrain below. The wind whipped his hair about his face as he pondered his next move. He could sense that the kid with the Qi Scroll was not far away, only about two kilometers as the crow flies. It wouldn''t take him long to catch up, im the treasure, and return home victorious.
But there was a problem, and it was a big one. The Devil''s Deny between him and his goal.
The red-haired young man furrowed his brow as he weighed his options. His eyes flickered towards the distant figure of the kid with the Qi Scroll, his mind racing with possibilities. After a few moments of contemtion, he finally made his decision.
"We''ll stay here and observe the kid," he said firmly, turning to address the two non-cultivators who had apanied him on this perilous journey. "If he dies, then one of you, if not both, should go and retrieve the treasure."
"If he does not die, then we simply cross this damned swamp and catch up to him," the red-haired young man continued, a determined glint in his eye.
Dongfang grinned widely. "Brilliant!" he eximed. "If he stops moving for a while, then it means he''s dead. If not, then that means he safely crossed the swamp and the Devil''s Den is not as dangerous as we thought!"
The men sat down cross-legged, their eyes fixed on the distant figure of the kid. The red-haired young man closed his eyes and cast a Qi Technique, strengthening his bond to the tracking magic of Ximen Wei''s.
Ximen Wei trudged through the murky swamp, his steps faltering with every passing moment. He could sense that something was off about this ce, an eerie energy that seemed to cling to him like a second skin. But he had no choice but to go forward.
As he made his way through the treacherous terrain, Ximen Wei gradually began to feel more at ease. The nausea that had gued him earlier had dissipated, reced by a strange sense of calm. He couldn''t quite put his finger on it, but he felt a strange resonance with this ce. It was as if the very essence of the swamp was flowing through him.
He figured it may be because of his cultivation method so he didn''t think too much about it.
After all, the Immortal Devil Sect''s sole doctrines revolve around ughter and bloodshed, to him, it wasn''t too surprising to see him forming a resonance with this ce.
As Ximen Wei trudged deeper into the swamp, he couldn''t help but feel like he was being watched. The howling noises that echoed sent shivers down his spine, and the faint cries of a little girl tugged at his heartstrings. He couldn''t help but wonder who, or what, was making those sounds.
As he waded through the murky waters, Ximen Wei began to hear mumbled screams that seemed toe from the very depths of the swamp. They were the kind of screams that could make a man''s blood run cold, and Ximen Wei felt a chill spread through his body. He tried to block out the noise, to focus on his goal, but the sounds only seemed to grow louder and more insistent.
It was as if the very swamp was trying to tell him something, to warn him of the dangers thaty ahead.
Chapter 44 44 - Is This The End?
?In less than twenty minutes, Ximen Wei had already encountered something that made him fear for his life. As he trudged through the murky waters of the swamp, he saw a boat pass by. Atop the boat was a young girl, her face buried in her arms as she wept inconsbly. Ximen Wei couldn''t make out her features, but he could feel the intensity of her sorrow.
As the boat drew closer, the girl suddenly stopped crying, and the atmosphere around Ximen Wei turned icy cold. The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end as he felt a wave of terror wash over him. He knew something was wrong, but he couldn''t put his finger on it.
Ximen Wei forced himself to keep moving, to ignore the overwhelming sense of dread that had taken hold of him. He pretended as if he hadn''t seen anything, as if everything was normal, but deep down, he knew that nothing was as it seemed in the swamp.
The corners of Ximen Wei''s eyes twitched as he sensed the young girl''s gaze upon him. He dared not look directly at her, but he could feel her cold, unwavering eyes piercing through his back as he moved further away.
Ximen Wei''s heart raced with fear as he realized that he was being watched, stalked, by something beyond his understanding. He knew that any wrong move could mean certain death, and so he kept his eyes forward, his steps quickened, and his heart pounding against his chest.
Every fiber of his being was screaming at him to turn around and face whatever it was that was stalking him. But something inside of him knew that doing so could mean the end of his life. He swallowed his fear and pressed on.
As Ximen Wei waded through the swamp, he felt a sense of relief as the other end came into view. His waist-deep immersion in the gore was almost over, and he could finally escape this living nightmare. But fate had other ns in store for him.
As he took a step forward, a skeletal hand emerged from the swamp, grabbing ahold of his leg with a vice-like grip. Ximen Wei''s heart leaped into his throat, and his breath became ragged as he realized that he was in the clutches of a being far more powerful than he could ever imagine.
But Ximen Wei was not one to give up without a fight. His hands moved in a flurry of incantation gestures, calling forth his Qi Techniques to battle the enemy thaty before him. He invoked the power of the "Iron Body" technique, which encased his body in a protective shell of hardened Qi. Then, he called upon the "Strengthen" technique, which heightened his physical strength and agility, allowing him to move faster and hit harder.
Finally, he unleashed the full force of his power with the "Iron Fist" technique, mming his fist into the skeletal hand with a force that shook the swamp.
As the blood waters of the swamp rained down upon him, Ximen Wei struggled to break free from the grip of the skeletal hand. Despite his best efforts, the hand only grew stronger, its bony fingers digging deeper into his flesh, threatening to pull him under.
Ximen Wei''s eyes zed with fury and desperation as he howled in defiance. His hands shed in a flurry of incantation gestures, calling forth his most powerful Qi Techniques. He unleashed the "Enfeeble" technique. He followed up with the "Bedevilment" technique.
But no matter how hard he tried, Ximen Wei could not break free. The skeletal hand remained immovable, its grip unyielding. Ximen Wei wailed in despair as he struggled with all his might, but it seemed as though he was fighting a losing battle.
In that moment, Ximen Wei realized that he was facing a foe far beyond his own abilities.
A look of cold determination crossed Ximen Wei''s face as he pulled out his dagger, preparing to take drastic measures to escape the grip of the skeletal hand. He chanted the "Sharpen" Qi technique, infusing the de with deadly energy that glittered in the dim light of the swamp.
With a fierce cry, Ximen Weiunched the dagger at his own leg, hoping to sever it from his body and escape the clutches of the hand. But just as the dagger was about to strike, another skeletal hand appeared out of nowhere, snatching the de out of mid-air and crushing it to dust with a single twist.
Ximen Wei''s eyes widened in shock and horror. He had never seen anything like this before - not even in his worst nightmares. His heart raced with fear and adrenaline as he struggled toe up with a new n.
He knew that he was in deep trouble now. The hands were closing in on him, their skeletal forms casting eerie shadows in the murky waters of the swamp. Ximen Wei gritted his teeth, his mind racing as he tried to think of a way out of this nightmare.
Ximen Wei''s heart sank as he watched in horror as the skeletal hand effortlessly crushed his only means of escape. His mind raced, trying toe up with another n, but it seemed as though fate was working against him.
Despair gripped his heart as he realized that he was not strong enough to fight back against the hands of death. He had always prided himself on his strength and power, but now, in the face of true danger, he found himself weak and powerless.
His vision began to swim as he felt himself being dragged down into the bloody waters of the meat swamp. The stench of decay filled his nostrils as he disappeared beneath the surface, swallowed up by the depths of the Devil''s Den.
The young master of the Song Family slowly opened his eyes, coughing up a mouthful of blood. Dongfang, his loyal servant, was quick to offer a healing potion, which the young master gratefully epted.
As he drank the potion, he pondered what had just happened. His tracking magic had been forcefully cut off, which could only mean one thing: outside interference.
"Did he... did he die?" Dongfang asked tentatively.
Chapter 45 45 - The True Devils Den
?The young master shook his head. "Even if he did, I would still be able to track him down. But someone or something is interfering with my magic. It seems that we are not the only ones interested in the Devil''s Den."
A fierce glint appeared in his eyes as he gazed towards the depths of the meat swamp. He knew that he had to be careful now. Whoever or whatever was out there, they were a force to be reckoned with.
....
Ximen Wei''s eyes flew open, his heart pounding in his chest as he struggled to catch his breath. Blinking rapidly, he tried to make sense of his surroundings, but the darkness that enveloped him left him disoriented and confused.
As his eyes gradually adjusted to the dim light, Ximen Wei realized he was in a cave. A quick survey of his surroundings revealed nothing out of the ordinary, but the foul stench that hung heavy in the air suggested that he was underground, beneath the swamp that he had been traversing moments before.
As he tried to stand, Ximen Wei''s eyesnded on the curtain of blood and gore that marked the entrance to the cave. His mind raced as he pieced together the events that had led him here, and he shuddered as the memories flooded back.
The swamp had been a nightmare, teeming with creatures that defied description. Ximen Wei had been on the verge of giving up hope when a bony hand had reached up from the depths and seized his leg. The next thing he knew, he had been pulled beneath the surface and dragged into the cave.
Despite his initial panic, Ximen Wei now felt a strange sense of calm. Though he was trapped, he was also alive, and that was more than he had expected after his harrowing experience in the swamp.
He thought to swim to the surface, but he quickly realized that it was impossible. There was an invisible barrier preventing him from leaving, just as it kept the gore and blood from entering the cave.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but wonder what kind of ce he had stumbled into. The cave was ordinary in every way, but the inexplicable force that held him captive suggested that there was more to it than met the eye.
He was no stranger to danger, having faced countless trials in his cultivation journey. But the eerie resonance of his cultivation base to this ce sent shivers down his spine. It was as if something primal and ancient was calling out to him, beckoning him deeper into the dark and foreboding cave.
Despite the warning bells ringing in his head, Ximen Wei knew he had no other choice but to proceed. He steeled his nerves and plunged into the unknown depths, his senses on high alert for any potential threats.
As he journeyed deeper into the heart of the cave, the air grew thicker and more oppressive. It was as if the very atmosphere was suffused with an aura of death and decay, threatening to snuff out his own life force.
He pushed on, drawn by an inexplicable force that seemed to guide him.
And then, after what seemed like an eternity, he stumbled upon it. The source of the resonance, the center of the cave''s power. A throne of skulls and bone, upon which sat a skeletal figure.
At first nce, it appeared lifeless and inert, just another long-dead relic of a bygone era. But as Ximen Wei approached, he could sense a faint pulse of life force emanating from the bones.
And then, to his horror, the skeleton''s eye sockets glowed with a crimson light, as if ignited by some inner inferno. Ximen Wei stumbled back, instinctively reaching for his sword.
But despite the obvious danger, he could not look away. The skeleton seemed to be studying him with an intense, unyielding gaze, as if assessing his worth and his ce in the grand scheme of things.
Ximen Wei stood in silent awe as the impossible unfolded before his eyes. The once lifeless skeleton, perched upon its throne of bone, began to stir. With a wave of its hand, a fierce tempest erupted from the depths of the cave, whipping through the air with a frenzied fury.
And then, something truly remarkable urred. Out of the chaos and turbulence, the skeleton began to transform. Flesh and muscle appeared out of thin air, coalescing around the bones in a writhing mass of sinew and tissue.
Ximen Wei watched with a mix of horror and fascination as the flesh and muscle merged seamlessly with the skeleton, knitting together into a grotesque, living form. The being before him was no longer a mere collection of bones, but a fully-formed human, pulsing with life force and vitality.
And then, with a wave of its other hand, the newly-formed creature began to transform once more. Skin grew across its body, supple and smooth, covering every inch of the flesh beneath. Hair sprouted atop its head, framing its angr features in a wild and unkempt mane.
And finally, the being was clothed in a flowing ck robe, which hung from its body like a shroud. Ximen Wei could only watch in silent amazement as the creaturepleted its transformation, staring back at him with an intense, inscrutable gaze.
Gone was the gaunt and ghastly skeleton, reced by a strikingly handsome young man with a wild mane of ck hair cascading down his back. His chiseled features were sharp and angr, radiating an almost supernatural maism that drew the eye and ensnared the senses.
Ximen Wei found himself struggling to maintain hisposure in the presence of such a breathtaking creature. There was an almost dangerous energy to him, a raw power that seemed to pulse with every breath he took.
It was clear that this being was no mere mortal. He exuded an aura of otherworldly charm and charisma that would make any woman swoon with desire, and any man quiver with fear.
But there was something else there too, something deeper and more insidious. A glint of mischief and devilry flickered in the young man''s eyes, hinting at darker secrets and hidden agendas lurking beneath the surface.
Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of trepidation as he looked upon this alluring yet enigmatic creature.
Chapter 46 46 - Bai Gu Jing
?d in a flowing ck robe that hung from his broad shoulders like a cloak of shadows, the young man appeared regal andmanding, perched atop his throne of bones like a sovereign lord presiding over his subjects.
But there was a darker undercurrent to his presence, one that hinted at a far more ominous power lurking beneath the surface. The aura of death that radiated from him was palpable, suffusing the air around him with a sense of dread and unease.
He chuckled softly to himself before rising from his throne, his eyes fixed upon Ximen Wei with a keen and prating gaze.
There was a curious glint in his eyes, a sense of mischief and cunning that spoke to a mind both sharp and unorthodox. He seemed to be studying Ximen Wei with a sly, almost amused expression, as if he were privy to some secret knowledge that eluded even the most astute observers.
And yet, there was something else there too, something darker and more unsettling. Madness lurked in the depths of his eyes, a flicker of derangement that hinted at a mind pushed to the brink of sanity.
Ximen Wei could only watch in silence as the young man approached, his every step brimming with a raw and potent energy that sent shivers down his spine. He knew that he was in the presence of a being unlike any he had ever encountered before.
As Ximen Wei gazed upon the young man standing before him, his heart raced with excitement and trepidation. The man''s presence alone was enough to set his cultivation base on fire, stirring a resonance within him.
"I am Bai Gu Jing, the White Devil," said the man, his voice like the soothing tinkling of a bell. "And you, young friend, I see that you are cultivating the magic of my league. Tell me, whose magic are you cultivating?"
Ximen Wei felt his nerves tighten as he regarded the man before him. Although his voice was calming, it only made him more cautious, raising his guard against the potential danger thaty ahead.
With a deep breath, Ximen Wei sped his hands together and bowed respectfully before replying. "Sir, I am cultivating the Immortal Devil Sect''s magic."
Ximen Wei''s expression remained steadfast, not a trace of fear to be found. His voice was calm and confident, surprising Bai Gu Jing with its unwavering tone. Ximen Wei had survived many deadly encounters in his life, and as a result, he no longer feared death. Standing before an entity that couldmand his fate with a mere word, what use was there in cowering like a whipped dog? If he died, so be it. If he lived, then he would consider himself fortunate to have survived.
As Bai Gu Jing chuckled in response, a look of confusion crossed his face. He couldn''t help but recall a name simr to the one Ximen Wei had mentioned - the Immortal Devil Sect. He wracked his brain, trying to remember where he had heard the name before.
Without hesitation, Ximen Wei pulled out the medallion that had been given to him by Long Gen. He knew that it was necessary to confirm his statement and dispel any doubts that Bai Gu Jing might have. With a wave of his sleeve, Bai Gu Jing sent the medallion floating towards him. Carefully studying it, he took a moment to ponder before returning it to Ximen Wei.
"Ah, I see," chuckled Bai Gu Jing, hisughter echoing through the mist. "So you cultivate that jinx''s magic. I can hardly believe he founded a sect!"
But before he could dwell on these thoughts for too long, Bai Gu Jing''s enthusiastic gestures caught his attention. Ximen Wei watched with curiosity as Bai Gu Jing beckoned him over.
"Come,e! Let me bestow upon you some good fortune!" he eximed, his voice filled with excitement.
Ximen Wei let out a bitterugh, his heart filled with trepidation. Despite feeling an overwhelming resonance from the entity before him, he did not want to approach any closer. He had witnessed Bai Gu Jing''s power firsthand, and the memory of the White Devil effortlessly bringing himself back to life with a mere wave of his hand was still fresh in his mind. The sight of Qi Techniques failing to make even the slightest dent on his skeletal hands was etched into his memory forever.
However, as Bai Gu Jing continued to speak, Ximen Wei knew that he had no choice but toply. He felt a sense of fear and unease wash over him as he reluctantly stepped forward.
"I must admit, I do admire your ruthlessness and cruelty," said Bai Gu Jing with a sly smile. "Those qualities are perfect for cultivating the magic of the League of Devils. With a personality like yours, you will make unprecedented progress and reach the peak of the mortal world."
Bai Gu Jing extended his hand, pointing a single finger towards Ximen Wei''s forehead. A sudden surge of Qi flowed through Ximen Wei''s body, causing him to wince in pain. As the energy coursed through him, Bai Gu Jing''s expression furrowed with confusion.
"Hmm, how strange," he murmured to himself. "You seem to be connected to HIM by Karma..."
Ximen Wei''s body trembled as the stream of Qi continued to course through him, leaving him feeling exposed and vulnerable. It was as if Bai Gu Jing could see through everyyer of his being, leaving nothing hidden or concealed. Ximen Wei gritted his teeth and forced himself to remain still, his eyes flickering with a mix of fear and anger.
But just as he was about to break hisposure, Bai Gu Jing spoke again, his voice tinged with confusion. "I can''t read your soul either..."
Ximen Wei''s eyes widened at the statement, his mind reeling with a mix of shock and disbelief. How could that be possible?
Bai Gu Jing abruptly ceased his actions and lifted his gaze towards the sky, his piercing eyes seeming to see through the cave walls and the murky, bloodied waters of the swamp, all the way up to the heavens above. His posture was upright, and his expression was solemn, as if he wasmunicating with the divine beings above.
Chapter 47 47 - Enigmatic Fate
?Bai Gu Jing regarded Ximen Wei with a curious expression, his piercing eyes seeming to look through him. The younger man could feel a shiver run down his spine as he stood before the powerful demon, unsure of what to expect.
"You have an enigmatic fate," Bai Gu Jing said, his voice carrying a note of awe. "It is shrouded in mystery, and your soul and memories are unreadable to me. Yet, our destinies seem intertwined, bound together by the threads of karma."
Ximen Wei could feel the weight of those words pressing down upon him, as if a great destiny was beingid out before him.
Bai Gu Jing gave a deep sigh, as if the weight of the ages rested upon his shoulders. "I had once nned to use your body as a vessel for my reincarnation, but it seems that fate has other ns. Instead, I shall pass on to you the legacy of the League of the Devils - my techniques, my magic, and my will. My Dao."
Ximen Wei listened with rapt attention, his eyes never leaving Bai Gu Jing''s face.
"The League of the Devils acquired the Devil Magic during the Qi Ascension, and we have kept it hidden within us ever since. Only when we reached the rank of Qi Expert did it begin to surface, granting us unimaginable power."
Bai Gu Jing paused, as if lost in thought. "When one of my brothers broke through to the Paragon Rank, he uncovered shocking secrets about the League of the Devils. But that knowledge is not for you yet. All you need to know is that we were waiting for you, and that the League of the Devils is connected to you by the bonds of karma. You are fated to be a Devil."
Bai Gu Jing''s eyes glinted with an intensity that seemed to pierce through the very fabric of reality. His voice was steady, unwavering, as he spoke.
"Although I am an extension of your true self, I do not want to die," he said. His words were not directed at Ximen Wei, but at some unseen presence that lingered in the air around them, haunting and intangible.
"You desire reincarnation, and so do I. You long for immortality, and so do I."
Ximen Wei could feel a shiver run down his spine as he listened to the demon''s words. He had never encountered such raw power before, such a sense of purpose that seemed to transcend time and space.
"This boy is connected to us by the bonds of karma," Bai Gu Jing continued, his voice growing more intense. "And you want me to help him. But what if I fail? What if I ruin your ns? What if I kill him right here, right now?"
Bai Gu Jing''s eyes glinted with an intensity that seemed to pierce through the very fabric of reality. He looked up towards the sky with an unyielding expression, as ifmuning with an unseen presence. His voice was steady, unwavering, as he spoke.
"Although I am an extension of your true self, I do not want to die," he said. "You desire reincarnation, and so do I. You long for immortality, and so do I."
Ximen Wei could feel a shiver run down his spine as he listened to the demon''s words. He had never encountered such raw power before, such a sense of purpose that seemed to transcend time and space.
"This boy is connected to us by the bonds of karma," Bai Gu Jing continued, his voice growing more intense. "And you want me to help him? What if I ruin your ns? What if I kill him right here, right now?"
Bai Gu Jing''s eyes glinted with an unprecedented madness, and his hair whipped around him wildly, as if possessed by some otherworldly force. The aura of death around him grew stronger and stronger, filling the cave with an oppressive weight.
"You''ve been dead for god knows how long," he snarled, his voice rising to a fever pitch. "Nothing will stop me if I want to kill this kid... nothing!"
Qi started to gather around Bai Gu Jing, giving rise to a wild tempest that threatened to tear the very cave apart. But Ximen Wei remained unscathed, standing resolutely before the demonic creature.
Just when it seemed like Bai Gu Jing would strike, he suddenly calmed down out of nowhere. The energy that had been emanating from him disappeared, and calmness settled over his eyes, no longer filled with madness and insanity.
"But I have no choice, do I?" he murmured.
Bai Gu Jing looked towards Ximen Wei, who stood there motionless and confused, clearly struggling to understand the sudden turn of events.
"Kid, I''ll pass on to you my legacy," he said, his voice carrying a note of urgency. "But in return, you have to take me to see my older brother."
Ximen Wei frowned, unsure of what to make of the request. He had no idea who this "older brother" was, or why Bai Gu Jing was so desperate to see him.
Before he could voice his confusion, however, Bai Gu Jing transformed into a beam of light that merged with the medallion inside Ximen Wei''s pocket. A voice rang out from within the medallion, echoing through the empty cave.
"I''ll release the contents of my legacy when we reach the Immortal Devil Sect," the voice said, clear andmanding. "The erected barrier outside is now disabled, you can exit my Devil''s Den safely."
imen Wei''s breath grew ragged, and his mind was a flurry of conflicting emotions. On the one hand, he felt a surge of excitement at the prospect of receiving Bai Gu Jing''s legacy - the promise of gaining such incredible power was almost too much to bear.
But at the same time, he could not shake the feeling that something was not right. The entity inside the medallion was clearly powerful beyond measure, and Ximen Wei had no idea what its true intentions were.
And what about Bai Gu Jing''s older brother? Who was he, and why was Bai Gu Jing so desperate to see him?
Chapter 48 48 - Blood Spirit
Ximen Wei''s mind was racing as he tried to process the information that Bai Gu Jing had just revealed. He didn''t know who his brother was, but he had a hunch. "The Immortal Devil Sect''s Sect Leader," he muttered under his breath.
Bai Gu Jing''s urgent words brought him back to reality. "Now go! I don''t have much time left," she said.
Above the surface, the Song Family Young Master and Dongfang were hard at work, determined to discover the whereabouts of Ximen Wei. With a sense of urgency in their movements, they performed augury and cast Qi Techniques to deduce where Ximen Wei could have gone.
Dongfang, in particr, was utilizing his signature technique, Envision Aura, to determine who might have taken Ximen Wei and to break any tracking magic that may have been used. His movements were swift and precise as he concentrated all his energy into the spell.
The Song Family Young Master, on the other hand, was casting a series of bizarre and powerful techniques unique only to the Song Family Cultivators. His movements were fluid, almost dance-like, as he channeled his energy into the spell.
The two men worked in tandem, their eyes locked in concentration as they poured all their energy into the task at hand.
Both Dongfang and the Song Family Young Master arrived at the same conclusion: the kid they had been following hadn''t moved from this location. However, their confusion grew as they noticed that the child was emanating the aura of a Level 1 Qi Trainee. Dongfang had his suspicions, and the young master narrowed his eyes, recalling the intruder who had barged into their dungeon not long ago, killing all the prisoners and guards.
Performing augury and casting their spells, they soon noticed the blood water of the swamp bubbling up before a small figure emerged. Covered in blood from head to toe, the child emitted a foul devilish aura due to the resonance with this location. The young master''s eyes widened, and Dongfang gasped in surprise. At first, they were scared out of their wits, but when they realized it was the kid they had been following, they pointed their swords at him.
"Stop right there!" shouted the Song Family Young Master.
"Halt!" added Dongfang, his sword at the ready.
As Ximen Wei realized he was being pursued, he cursed before making a run for it. The swamp water was waist-deep for him, making it difficult to move, while for Dongfang and the young master, it only reached below their knees. The red-haired young man chuckled, realizing that they could catch Ximen Wei even if they walked slowly.
However, his expression quickly turned to one of shock as he saw Ximen Wei diving into the disgusting swamp water. Swimming through the putrid pool of intestines and gore, Ximen Wei''s speed was no less than his usual speed on dry ground. To make matters worse, he cast a movement type Qi Technique to boost his speed several-fold.
"Qi Technique - Dash Action!" propelling himself forward with renewed speed.
Ximen Wei whizzed under the blood waters, disappearing from sight in the blink of an eye. The young master let out a bellow of rage, furious that a mere 10-year-old had managed to slip away from his grasp.
"I won''t let you get away that easily!" he shouted, his eyes zing with determination.
Without a moment''s hesitation, he threw his hands in a grabbing motion and called forth a powerful Qi Technique unique to Level 2 Qi Trainees.
"Qi Technique - Azure Hand!" he bellowed, channeling his energy into his hand.
Ximen Wei heard the rumble and felt the tremors beneath him. He knew he was in deep trouble.
An otherworldly hand enveloped in a shimmering azure haze materialized out of thin air, its colossal size dwarfing everything in its vicinity. As the apparition appeared, the very fabric of the world trembled and the heavens themselves shook, a portent of the immense power it held.
The blood-red waters of the Devil''s Den quaked in fear as the colossal hand hurtled towards Ximen Wei at an unimaginable speed, leaving in its wake a trail of destruction.
Ximen Wei, sensing the approaching danger, remained steadfast and unwavering. Without turning to face his assant, he summoned his inner strength and focused his Qi, channeling it into aplex and demanding incantation.
The technique he was attempting to cast was a long-range Qi Technique, one that surpassed his current level of expertise. But despite his rtive inexperience and youth, Ximen Wei''s talent was exceptional, and his seventh Extraordinary Meridian
Ximen Wei knew that attempting to cast the Qi Technique before absorbing the Beast Cores would result in certain failure, his body would sumb to the overwhelming bacsh, causing him to perish both physically and spiritually.
With unwavering resolve, Ximen Wei summoned his newfound knowledge of the Earth-grade Qi Condensation Manual, and uttered the incantation for a new, powerful long-range Qi Technique he had acquired from Long Gen: "Qi Technique - Blood Spirit!"
As he did so, a vortex began to form behind him, drawing in the mashed meat and blood of the swamp to coalesce into a small, two-horned head thatughed with a chilling and eerie sound. The Blood Spirit appeared to be anything but human, with no discernible eye sockets, ears or nose - only a gaping mouth from which it let out its eerieughter. Its rough, red skin oozed with a viscous liquid that dripped into the murky swamp waters, a reminder that its existence was fleeting, soon to dissolve into oblivion.
As the colossal hand closed in on Ximen Wei, he knew that the Blood Spirit would not be enough to fight for him. Instead, he summoned it to serve as a shield, to protect him from the iing attack.
With a deafening roar, the hand mmed into the Blood Spirit, causing a massive explosion that shook the entire area. The force of the impact was immense, sending shockwaves rippling through the swamp and the air.
Chapter 49 49 - Chase Through The Swamp
Ximen Wei''s heart was pounding in his chest as he swam frantically through the bloody waters, desperately trying to put some distance between himself and the Song Family Young Master who was hot on his heels. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he fought against the currents, his muscles burning with exertion.
Bai Gu Jing''s taunting voice echoed in his ears, only adding to his frustration. The old fossil was supposed to be his ally, but here he was, sitting on his ass andughing while Ximen Wei was in danger.
"Shut the fuck up, Bai Gu Jing," Ximen Wei snarled, his voice dripping with venom. "If you''re not going to help me, then at least have the decency to stay quiet."
To his surprise, Bai Gu Jing''sughter grew even louder. "Hahaha, you really are a feisty one, aren''t you?" the old man chortled. "I like that in a disciple. Alright, let me see what I can do."
Ximen Wei gritted his teeth as he pushed himself harder, his arms and legs pumping furiously. He could hear the sound of the Song Family Young Master''s breathing getting closer and closer, and he knew he couldn''t keep this up for much longer.
Ximen Wei''s heart sank as he saw the bronzentern in the Song Family Young Master''s hand. He knew all too well the power of Qi Artifacts and the devastating Qi Techniques they could unleash.
As the young master began to chant his incantation, Ximen Wei could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. The air around them crackled with energy as the young master''s hands shed inplex gestures, summoning the power of the bronzentern.
"Beacon of Light, Azure Cage! Seal Space, Seal Time, Seal Heaven and Earth!" the young master intoned, his voice ringing out with amanding authority. Ximen Wei watched in horror as thentern''s light turned an ominous shade of azure blue, pulsating with a terrifying aura that made his mind go numb.
Suddenly, azure chains shot out from thentern at unfathomable speeds, heading straight for Ximen Wei. The chains expanded boundlessly, epassing a 20-meter area.
Ximen Wei''s heart was pounding in his chest as he desperately searched for a way out of this situation. His mind raced, trying toe up with a solution, but it seemed like he was out of options. He knew that he couldn''t hold on much longer.
His eyes darted to the medallion in his pocket, and he called out to Bai Gu Jing, hoping that the ancient devil would finally step in to help him.
"Bai Gu Jing! If you''re not going to act now, then when will you act??" Ximen Wei shouted in frustration.
There was a brief moment of silence before a sigh rang out from the medallion.
"Fine fine, but don''t ever talk to me like that kid! If it were not for Karma, I would''ve killed you already," Bai Gu Jing''s voice boomed in response.
Ximen Wei breathed a sigh of relief as the beam of light shot from his pocket and shattered the azure chain, breaking it into countless pieces that fell down into the swamp''s bloody waters. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of satisfaction at seeing the powerful Bai Gu Jing''s attack.
Bai Gu Jing, on the other hand, couldn''t contain his delight at his own power. "Haha, I''m great, aren''t I? Back in my prime, I was one of the most powerful people under the Heavens. How could a trifling Level 3 Qi Technique stand in my way?" he boasted, his smug grin widening.
However, the Song Family Young Master''s expression turned ugly and wary. The Azure Seals technique was a signature move of his family, used to seal and imprison powerful experts of Heaven and Earth. It was not to be taken lightly.
He stopped in his tracks before resuming the chase again, his eyes fixed on Ximen Wei''s pocket where the attack that broke his technique hade from. He caught a glimpse of the medallion thaty there and assumed that Ximen Wei had a Qi Artifact like him. He wagered that the young boy could only use it once without paying a heavy price, just as he had to pay a price to unleash the Azure Seals.
But the Song Family Young Master was not happy at all. In fact, his mind was racing with worry and suspicion. How could a Level 1 Qi Trainee, who was not even 11 years old, possess such a powerful artifact?
Dongfang used a Qi Technique to gain an incredible boost of speed, zooming past him in the blink of an eye. Dongfang''s speed was so great that he was close to catching up to Ximen Wei, who was swimming, in no time at all.
Without hesitation, Dongfang pushed his hands forward, unleashing yet another Qi Technique. "Qi Technique - Azure Hand!" he eximed.
However, this time, the technique was not as powerful as when the Song Family Young Master had unleashed it. As a Level 1 Qi Trainee, Dongfang simply didn''t have the same level of skill and power. The Azure Hand was even more illusory than before, barely stretching to a meter in length. Its power was significantly weaker than its former incarnation, but it was still sent hurtling towards Ximen Wei with the intention of inflicting serious harm.
Fortunately for Ximen Wei, the effects of his Dash Action were still in ce, giving him the agility and speed he needed to evade Dongfang''s attack by a hair''s breadth.
The Azure Hand attack whizzed past Ximen Wei, creating a deep crater in the murky swamp waters where itnded. Ximen Wei couldn''t help but feel a sense of relief, knowing that he had just narrowly escaped a potentially lethal blow.
"Slippery bastard, get back here!" Dongfang growled in frustration, coughing up a mouthful of blood. Despite his injuries, he waved his hands and unleashed yet another Qi Technique, determined to catch Ximen Wei at all cost.
Chapter 50 50 - Ultimatum From The White Devil
The young master''s eyes glinted with greed and avarice as he thought about the cultivation treasure that this kid supposedly had in his pocket. He was convinced that Ximen Wei possessed a Qi Artifact, especially after witnessing the beam of light from earlier.
Even the Song Family, with all their wealth and resources, possessed only one Qi Artifact. Their Patriarch, a Rank 1 Qi Expert, would undoubtedly chase Ximen Wei just for his treasure if given the opportunity.
With their eyes shining with a mix of greed and wariness, the two pursued Ximen Wei relentlessly, determined to catch him at all costs. Dongfang pushed his index finger forward, blood in the corners of his mouth, and shouted out a battle cry.
"Qi Technique - Azure Finger!"
This was a pure offensive Qi Technique, designed specifically for killing. Unlike the versatile Azure Hand, which could be used for a variety of purposes, such as grabbing or mming into things, Azure Finger was meant for one thing only: destruction. Its sole purpose was to eliminate the enemy with deadly precision.
As the gigantic index finger bore down on him, Ximen Wei could feel the winds of destruction blowing around him. His heart pounded in his chest, but his eyes were clear and focused. He had been pushed to the brink of death, but he refused to give up. He hade too far to fail now.
With a fierce resolve, Ximen Wei''s hands shed in an intricate gesture as he called upon the Qi in the air. It flowed into his body like a river, suffusing him with power and vitality. He could feel his muscles bulging, his bones hardening, as his body underwent an incredible transformation.
The Qi condensed around him, forming a barrier of pure energy that hardened into an imprable shell. He had activated the Iron Body technique, making his skin as tough as steel. But Ximen Wei wasn''t satisfied yet. He knew that he needed more power if he wanted to survive this encounter.
He closed his eyes, focusing all of his energy on the task at hand. The Qi surged through him like a hurricane, and he could feel his body glowing with an otherworldly energy. With a final burst of effort, he unleashed the Strengthen technique, pouring all of his power into his limbs.
Now, Ximen Wei was ready. He opened his eyes, he was no longer afraid. With his body strengthened and his Qi flowing freely, he was ready to face whatever came his way.
As the Azure Finger bore down on him, Ximen Wei stood his ground. With a fierce cry, he raised his arms and met the attack head-on.
The sound of the explosion echoed through the Devil''s Den as Ximen Wei''s body was hurled through the air. A gaping hole could be seen in his shoulder where the attack hadnded, and the harmful Qi that had entered his body was wreaking havoc, sending his mind reeling and causing blood to pour from his eyes, nose, ears, and mouth. But despite the pain and chaos raging inside him, Ximen Wei smiled.
He had made it out of the Devil''s Den.
Coughing up a mouthful of blood, he struggled to his feet and resumed running that seemed to defy his injuries. If anything, to Dongfang and the young master, he appeared to be moving even faster than before.
But the young master was not pleased. His voice rang out with rage and madness, his fury boiling over at Dongfang''s perceived betrayal.
"Dongfang, what do you think you''re doing?" he bellowed.
The young master unleashed the full power of his Qi Technique - Azure Steps. In a blink of an eye, he covered a distance of twenty minutes andnded on the shores of the swamp, mere meters away from Ximen Wei. And with another step, he appeared right in front of him.
Ximen Wei could feel the overwhelming power emanating from the young master, a testament to the terrifying strength of a Level 2 Qi Trainee.
Despite the blood and injuries that covered him, Ximen Wei remained undaunted. He knew he hade too far to be stopped now.
The young master''s palm strike, fueled by his immense physical strength, was aimed straight at Ximen Wei. But before it couldnd, a voice cut through the air, disheartened and disappointed.
"Kid, I stepped upst time because the previous attack was something you couldn''t handle," Bai Gu Jing''s voice echoed through the stillness. "But you''re up against a piddling Level 2 Qi Trainee now. Don''t tell me you can''t handle that either?"
As he emerged from the Immortal Devil Sect medallion, time seemed to freeze. Only Ximen Wei and Bai Gu Jing were able to move, while the red-haired young man, Dongfang, and everything else were as immobile as statues.
Bai Gu Jing shook his head in disappointment as he looked at Ximen Wei. "Back when I was at your level, I could easily crush Level 2 Qi Trainees and even toy with Level 3 Qi Trainees. When I became a Level 2 Qi Trainee, I could fight evenly with a Rank 1 Qi Expert," he said, his voice filled with regret. "Although you''re young and have only cultivated for a month, your battle prowess isughable."
As Bai Gu Jing spoke, Ximen Wei''s eyes filled with a burning hatred, but he found himself unable to even speak a word. "You didn''t even open nine Extraordinary Meridians when you reached the first level," Bai Gu Jing continued. "I don''t know why they picked you, but I have toply with his wishes."
Bai Gu Jing paused for a brief moment, his eyes narrowing as he considered Ximen Wei. "How about this," he said atst. "If you don''t reach the third level within three months, I''ll personally kill you with my own hands. I don''t care if I have to incur their wrath, I have to do what''s best for me... for my true self."
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